The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Public Health, Women, Infant, and Community Wellness Section has opened RFA A427 – Reducing Infant Mortality in Communities (RIMC) for North Carolina local health departments. The program is designed to reduce infant mortality in the communities where funded services are provided.
All North Carolina local health departments are eligible to apply. Local health departments serving counties that rank in the top quartile for infant mortality rates and/or infant mortality disparity ratios receive demonstrated-need scoring priority under the RFA. Pitt, Beaufort, Cumberland, Wayne, and Wilson counties appear on both current demonstrated-need lists.
The controlling RFA states that the program has $1,727,307 in total annual funding, funded 100% through the HRSA Maternal and Child Health Block Grant. NCDHHS expects to make 8 to 10 awards at an award level of $150,000 to $200,000 for each state fiscal year. Funding is available for three state fiscal years, contingent on program performance and availability of funding, with performance periods running from June 1, 2027 through May 31, 2030.
Each applicant must select two of four evidence-based strategies: Breastfeeding Support Services, Doula Services, Group Prenatal Care, or Infant Safe Sleep Services. Community engagement is required for each selected strategy, and partnership documentation may be required depending on the role and funding status of participating community organizations.
Deadline and Submission
Applications are due October 26, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. The current RFA does not state a time zone. The RFA requires electronic submission and identifies Renee Jackson, Program Manager, as the delivery contact.
Key applicant dates include an applicant teleconference on September 24, 2026 from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., an optional Notice of Intent and applicant-question deadline on October 9, 2026 at 5:00 p.m., and a scheduled Q&A/addendum release on October 15, 2026. The RFA does not state time zones for the September 24 or October 9 times.
Atlas Analysis
This is a high-fit maternal and infant health opportunity for North Carolina local health departments, particularly counties receiving the RFA’s demonstrated-need priority score. Atlas can support eligible departments with application organization, narrative development, budget preparation, required forms, and submission readiness using the issuing agency’s current materials.