Atlanta, GA | Friday, February 2, 2024 — Heartbeats & Hands 540, a philanthropic volunteer organization committed to facilitating meaningful connections between individuals and impactful volunteer opportunities at charitable and non-profit organizations across the state, is pleased to announce that Kristina McBride has been awarded a $500 scholarship to pursue the Perinatal Mental Health Certification of Mental Health by Postpartum Support International (PSI).
Kristina McBride, a Certified Lactation Consultant (CLC), has demonstrated a profound commitment to supporting parents during the perinatal period. The scholarship is a recognition of her dedication and aims to empower her with additional skills to make a meaningful impact on the mental health of parents.
The State of Georgia faces significant challenges in maternal health, as highlighted in the Maternal Mortality Report - 2018-2020 by the Georgia Department of Public Health. The report found that 30.2 deaths occurred for every 100,000 live births in Georgia from 2018 to 2020, indicating a nearly 20% increase from the previous year’s report. Of the deaths studied, 113 were concluded to be related to pregnancy, with 89% deemed preventable, underscoring the urgent need for improved maternal health support.
With Kristina's pursuit of the Perinatal Mental Health Certification through PSI, there is a renewed hope for addressing maternal mental health challenges in Georgia. This certification equips professionals to provide specialized care, contributing to a reduction in preventable maternal deaths. The leading causes of pregnancy-related deaths, including hemorrhage, mental health conditions, cardiomyopathy, cardiovascular conditions, embolism, and preeclampsia, will be addressed through Kristina's enhanced expertise.
Heartbeats & Hands 540 congratulates Kristina McBride on this well-deserved scholarship and looks forward to witnessing the positive outcomes of her continued efforts in perinatal mental health, contributing to the improvement of maternal well-being in the State of Georgia.
About Heartbeats & Hands 540:
Heartbeats & Hands 540 is a philanthropic volunteer organization dedicated to fostering meaningful connections between individuals and impactful volunteer opportunities at charitable and non-profit organizations across the state of Georgia. Established in 2022 by our founder, who, after experiencing a stillbirth in 2021, envisioned Heartbeats & Hands 540 as a vehicle for spreading joy amidst grief.
Our organization draws its name from the symbolism of the heartbeat, representing the unifying organ we all share that gives us life, and hands, symbolizing the spirit of helping hands reaching out to those in need. The number 540 holds a special significance, representing 540Hz—the frequency of joy. Heartbeats & Hands 540 is committed to making a positive impact on individuals and communities, guided by the belief that joy and support go hand in hand.
Through our volunteer initiatives and partnerships with charitable organizations, we aim to create a network of compassion and service, bringing comfort to those facing challenges and spreading joy where it is needed most. Join us in our mission to build a community of caring hearts and helping hands, uplifting one another, and making a lasting difference in the lives of those we serve.
Media Contacts:
Elyse Hill
Board Secretary
Christy Williams
Board Secretary Assistant - Records & Projects Coordinator