Mother, Newborn and Child Health

The fact that thousands of women and children in developing countries die needlessly from avoidable diseases or complications during pregnancy and childbirth is a preventable tragedy.

Family health, reduction in family violence and renewed family pride are only part of a mother, newborn and child health program that the Canadian Red Cross brings to communities around the world - saving countless lives of mothers and children.

With access to education, mothers learn to identify health risk factors, suitable preparation for childbirth and the postpartum period, understand correct diet and caring for the infant as development progresses.

Canadian Red Cross – Ontario Mother, Newborn and Child Health Program – Sri Lankan mother getting health care for her and her son from the Red Cross

Canadian Red Cross – Ontario Mother, Newborn and Child Health Program – Sri Lankan mother getting health care for her and her son from the Red Cross

At the Canadian Red Cross, our health projects focus on mothers and children because they are most vulnerable to disease, malnutrition, conflicts, disasters, poverty and marginalization. We support their health in a number of basic - yet essential - ways.

These services vary in the country depending on the need. They are all delivered through community-based programs provided through our vast international Red Cross Red Crescent humanitarian network and local health systems.

The good news is that through simple, cost-effective measures, we have the potential to reverse the trend of mothers and children dying needlessly around the world.

Read more about how your help can deliver important health care services to vulnerable families.


  • Mother, Newborn and Child Health