The following is a statement from Jamie Bardwell and Danielle Lampton, Co-Founders and Co-Executive Directors of Converge, in response to MSDH’s declaration of a public health emergency on infant mortality.
“We stand with MSDH in elevating the urgent issue of infant mortality in Mississippi, which has now reached its highest level in a decade. This declaration must mark a turning point for all of us working to improve maternal and infant health. As Mississippi’s Title X family planning grantee, Converge supports a statewide network of providers that deliver high-quality reproductive and sexual health care to people living with low or no income.
“Evidence shows that access to contraception, prenatal counseling and care, and reproductive health services is essential to reducing both infant and maternal deaths. No one organization can solve our state’s infant and maternal health crisis but together we can ensure all women have access to quality health care where they live.
“This is a crisis we cannot ignore. It demands our full attention and our collective action to create a future where every person has a chance to thrive.”
Contact: Audrey Sandusky: asandusky@convergeaccess.org
Date posted: August 28, 2025