WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jeff Bingaman today announced that New Mexico will benefit from over $1.73 million in funding awarded through a U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' grant program that provided assistance to young pregnant women.  The funding was made possible through grant programs established under new health insurance law that took effect six months ago.

New Mexico Public Education Department was awarded a $1.3 million grant to support services that help pregnant women and teen parents finish high school, get child care, health care and housing. Funding can also be used to combat violence against mothers and pregnant women.

In addition, Native American Professional Parent Resources, Inc. in Albuquerque will receive a $330,000 grant and the Pueblo of San Felipe a $100,000 grant through the Tribal Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting grant program, which helps tribes develop and implement high-quality, evidence-based support programs for at-risk tribal families. 

"This funding will help provide pregnant women and mothers access to the education and support they need to help keep them and their children healthy," Bingaman said.

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