Canadian Prenatal Nutrition Program
Giving New Moms & Babies a Strong Start
The CPNP is a community-based program administered through Health Canada for First Nations women on-reserve
We provide support to improve the health and well-being of pregnant women, new mothers and babies facing challenging life circumstances, such as poverty, teen pregnancy, isolation, substance abuse and family violence.
Information sessions for new mothers have included topics such as maternal nourishment, postpartum care, challenges of caring for a baby, nutrition for healthy-term babies, and increasing milk supply. Activities have included gardening, shopping, cooking and sewing classes. Often, food, prizes and emergency diapers are available.
Goals & Objectives
- To improve the health status of pregnant women, and their babies in utero & through infancy
- To promote positive thinking & healthy living
- To help clients understand the importance of maternal nourishment
- To provide nutrition, screening, counselling & education for healthy lifestyles
- To increase the rate of healthy birth weights in NCN community
- To encourage breastfeeding as a first choice
- To connect with other social services to support vulnerable pregnant women & new mothers
Why do I need the Canadian Prenatal Nutrition Program?
Ensuring your best nutritional health throughout pregnancy, and after you’ve delivered, can be difficult. Information can be overwhelming. Healthy foods can be expensive or difficult to find. You may be dealing with additional stress, such as addiction or demanding family circumstances. The CPNP is a great way to ensure you’re taking care of your own nutritional needs and that of your baby.
What are the benefits of the CPNP?
You’ll receive prenatal health support, nutrition counselling, and lifestyle advice. We can connect you to other social services if you need them. You can share your experiences with other new moms and enjoy friendship and support.
Caring for yourself and your baby should be educational and fun!
This program currently operates in Nelson House. If you are in a different community, contact your local sub-office to ask about similar opportunities.