November 2025
SRQ Magazine Highlights Women’s Health
We’re thrilled to give a big shout-out to SRQ Magazine for their recent article, "Health4Women", which spotlights First 1,000 Days Suncoast’s Navigation Program and our incredible partners – Sarasota Memorial Hospital’s Pregnancy Care Team, Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation, Inc., CenterPlace Health, Women’s Resource Center, and others who support women and families in our community. We deeply appreciate SRQ Magazine for shining a light on the importance of women’s health – especially during pregnancy and early motherhood. These are critical times that shape lifelong health and well-being, and it’s inspiring to see local media bringing attention to this vital work. Together, we’re helping women and families thrive – from the very beginning.
SMH NICU Library featured on Suncoast View
In our last edition, we were excited to announce the launch of Sarasota Memorial Hospital’s NICU Mobile Library, made possible through the generous donations of Felicia Donson, Mom’s Nook Book, and the Patterson Foundation. We’re thrilled to share that Suncoast View picked up the story and featured an interview with our very own Family Navigator, Tina Wilson, and SMH Manager Katie Clementi, who shared how the library is helping families bond and learn during their NICU journey. If you missed the feature, you can click here to watch the segment! A huge thank you to our amazing partners, donors, and media friends for helping spread the word about this special resource for NICU families.
Dr. Chelsea Arnold, to Keynote Statewide Maternal Mental Health Conference Kick-Off Event
We are proud to share that Dr. Chelsea Arnold, Director of First 1,000 Days Suncoast, has been selected to serve as a keynote speaker for the Kickoff Event of the 10th Annual Florida Maternal Mental Health Conference. The conference, hosted by the Florida Maternal Mental Health Collaborative (FLMMHC) and First 1,000 Days Florida, will take place January 8–10, 2026, at the FSU Alumni Center in Tallahassee, FL. This annual event brings together professionals, educators, and advocates in perinatal mental health from across the state to learn, grow, and collaborate on advancing care and support for mothers and families. Dr. Arnold will open the conference with an inspiring keynote address that underscores the importance of early connection, community collaboration, and the vital work being done to support families through the First 1,000 Days Suncoast initiative. Please join us in congratulating Dr. Arnold on this well-deserved recognition and leadership role in helping shape the future of maternal mental health in Florida. To register for the conference, go to https://flmomsmatter.org/conferences/
Supporting Perinatal Mental Health: Screen, Connect, Care
Navigating mental health services during pregnancy and postpartum can be challenging for parents, with obstacles ranging from stigma to provider capacity and lack of awareness of the help available in our community. This is alarming since the prevalence of depression and anxiety for new parents is significant. Understanding the impact parents’ mental health can have on their child’s development and well-being, community partners united to create the First 1,000 Days Perinatal Mental Health Coordination Hub. Click here to learn more about this powerful collaborative strategy to better support pregnant and postpartum individuals.
Bishop-Parker Foundation Supports First 1,000 Days
A special thank you to Bishop Parker Foundation for their generous support over the past two years of $150,000 to ensure Manatee County families have access to the critical services First 1,000 Days offers.
First 1,000 Days is thrilled to participate in the Sarasota Children's Museum STEAM event on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at the legendary Bello Nock property. Please join us at this family-favorite event filled with circus fun, hands-on STEAM activities, performances, and history.
What Parents Are Saying
"Renee King (Family Navigator for First 1,000 Days) was so helpful and answered all my questions. She got me the resources I needed. She taught me about over-the-counter benefits. She even helped me find someone to check out my child's developmental needs at home. I am so thankful for her. She is truly a shining star." -Mother of 2
Tina Wilson, Family Navigator for First 1,000 days received the following text from a mother:
"Tina buenos dias quiero darte las gracias por todo lo que haz hecho por mi familia en first 1,000 days de Verdad eres esas personas que trabaja con pasion y ayuda a los demas que Dios to bendiga a ti y toda tu familia.". Translation: "Tina, good morning. I want to thank you for everything you have done for my family in the first 1,000 days. You are truly one of those people who works with passion and helps others. May God bless you and your whole family."
"I know that there are people there to help me and I'm not alone. Knowing that has really made a positive impact on my mental health. I've been able to get help for myself and my kids which has been amazing." - Mother helped by First 1,000 Days
CONNECT WITH US!
Our community partners are vital to our mission. First 1,000 Days Suncoast is committed to working collaboratively to develop innovative solutions that make a lasting difference for families, organizations, and communities.
Here's how you can get involved:
- Join a First 1,000 Days workgroup.
- Screen for social and mental health needs.
- Volunteer with organizations serving pregnant women and families.
- Join the Unite Us platform to streamline referrals and care coordination.
-Share this information to spread awareness.
If you know someone who is pregnant or has a child under the age of three and needs support, encourage them to request assistance through First 1,000 Days: www.first1000dayssuncoast.org/help-form.
941-917-7421 | First1000Days@smh.com | First1000DaysSuncoast.org