Mon Health Medical Center Auxiliary gifts $160K to Vandalia Health’s Progressing Through Postpartum Program

The Mon Health Medical Center Auxiliary presented a gift of $160,000 in support of the Progressing Through Postpartum (P3) Program at Vandalia Health Mon Medical Center, helping advance maternal health and family support services across the region.

The donation reflects years of fundraising efforts and the collective dedication of Auxiliary members, volunteers, donors and community supporters who share a commitment to improving healthcare close to home.

P3 is a comprehensive perinatal support program that provides education, care coordination, mental health support, breastfeeding assistance and connections to community resources for mothers and families throughout pregnancy and the first year postpartum. Established to address gaps in perinatal mental health care, the program offers personalized guidance and support to help families navigate pregnancy, childbirth and the postpartum period.

Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders are among the most common complications of pregnancy and childbirth. Through screening, early intervention and ongoing support, P3 helps families access resources that improve outcomes for parents and children alike. Nearly 200 families have been impacted by the program, with more than 87% reporting that the interactions and support through the program helped them during pregnancy and postpartum. Among mothers who received support services through P3, more than 64% reported a reduction in depression and anxiety symptoms.

“The Progressing Through Postpartum Program provides critical support for mothers and families during one of life’s most important transitions,” said Krystal Atkinson, DNP, RN, CNOR, Chief Administrative Officer of Vandalia Health Mon Medical Center and Chief Nursing Executive of Vandalia Health’s Northern Region. “Through education, care coordination, mental health resources and ongoing guidance, P3 helps families feel supported and connected. We are grateful to the Mon Medical Center Auxiliary for investing in the health and well-being of our communities.”

“Every family’s journey is unique, and the transition into parenthood can bring both joy and challenges,” said Jennifer Bender, RN-C, IBCLC, PMH-C, Perinatal Nurse Navigator and Internationally Board-Certified Lactation Consultant at Vandalia Health Mon Medical Center. “P3 helps participants and families feel empowered, informed and never alone. One participant described the program as ‘literally life-saving,’ while another shared that without P3 she may never have known where to begin seeking help. These stories remind us why P3 matters, and we are incredibly grateful for the Auxiliary’s support, which helps us continue making a difference in the lives of mothers, babies and families across our region.”

“The Auxiliary has long believed in supporting programs that improve the lives of patients and families. We are honored to invest in a program that is making such a meaningful difference for local families,” said Bethann Gamponia, President of the Mon Health Medical Center Auxiliary. “We are grateful to the entire P3 team for their dedication and compassionate care, as well as our members, donors, sponsors and community supporters whose contributions allow us to invest in programs that have a meaningful impact on the health and well-being of our communities.”

Funds from the donation will help P3 continue providing education, care navigation, breastfeeding support, mental health resources and referrals to specialized care for families throughout the region. The program also connects participants with community resources and ongoing support during pregnancy and the first year postpartum.