COVID-19 collides with a long-standing public health crisis of significantly higher maternal mortality and morbidity rates for African American and Latina women. The pandemic is forcing a close examination of the weaknesses of traditional maternity care systems. This new initiative will support communities and provide evidence-based interventions while enacting innovative approaches to address the barriers that exist around equitable maternity care for women and families of color. Representatives of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC), the National Birth Equity Collaborative, the Georgia Health Policy CenterR.A.C.E. for EquityReaching Our Sisters Everywhere, the National Perinatal Association, the Morehouse School of Medicine and National Area Health Education Centers Organization will address these disparities, support providers and families, and boost access to telehealth and distant care services with a one-time award of up to $4 million through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act of 2020, awarded by the U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration. Click here to read the full announcement. Currently there is an open call for proposals to support local efforts. To learn more click here.