13 | NWSLTR
“ Our approach nurtures the whole person. Pregnancy is not one-dimensional, and neither should the care be. We offer support that meets the women where they are whether virtually, in the classroom or in their own neighborhoods.”
-Kylee Peoples
Jewell Rollins, Extension Educator and Doula for Northwest and Northeast Ohio, sees the program as a vital intervention in maternal health equity. “We know that disparities in maternal outcomes often stem from gaps in access to support, to education, to trust,” Rollins said. “This program is about changing that. From doulas offering emotional reassurance to dietitians giving nutrition strategies, we’re creating an environment where women are supported every step of the way.” Kylee Peoples, Extension Educator and Doula for Southern and Southwest Ohio, echoed that sentiment. “Our approach nurtures the whole person,” she said. “Pregnancy is not one- dimensional, and neither should the care be. We offer support that meets women where they are whether virtually, in the classroom or in their own neighborhoods.” Doulas involved in the program provide more than labor preparation; they are trained advocates for maternal wellness. Their support ranges from prenatal planning to postpartum recovery, helping mothers feel seen, heard and valued. Meanwhile, licensed dietitians address a range of pregnancy-related challenges, including managing gestational diabetes, improving iron intake and preparing for lactation. Their guidance helps mothers create sustainable, healthy habits that extend
into family life after birth.
ongoing program, which continues throughout the year. Regional educators are available to assist with enrollment and to answer questions:
This collaborative care model, uniting doulas, dietitians and Extension educators promotes a culture of respect, empowerment and informed decision-making, which is essential for long- term health outcomes. The program is designed to support expectant and new mothers and is in addition to the care received from medical professionals. Paragraph locked by Anonymous user “She, Me, and Her” reflects Central State University Extension’s larger mission: advancing community well-being through education and outreach that is equitable, culturally relevant and rooted in real-world needs. The initiative, led by CSUE’s Family and Consumer Sciences department, prioritizes reaching rural, urban, and underserved populations that often lack access to consistent maternal support. “Our goal is to make health care education not only available, but approachable,” said Rollins. “We want women to know that they don’t need to go through this alone. Through community partnerships, mobile outreach and flexible scheduling, we are building a network of care and connection.”
Southern and Southwest Ohio
Kylee Peoples, Extension Educator and Doula Phone: 937-972-3077 Email: kpeoples1@centralstate.edu
Northwest and Northeast Ohio
Jewell Rollins, Extension Educator and Doula Phone: 937-972-3073 Email: jrollins@centralstate.edu
Northeast Region.
Elizabeth Schweigert Dietitian Regional Extension Educator Phone 330-268-9107 Eschweigert@centralstate.edu
Southwest Region
Donna Kuykendall, EFNEP & FCS Educator Phone: 937-993-2586 Email: dkuykendall@centralstate.edu
Expectant mothers across Ohio can still join the
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