PROJECT CABO

Working together for access to birth options.

Childbirth is a life-changing moment that can make stronger mothers, partners and families. Stronger mothers, partners and families are the first step in making a better community.

Community Alliance for Birth Options (CABO) is a non-profit grassroots organization that advocates for normalcy in pregnancy and birth and increased access to midwives in hospitals, birth centers and in the home. CABO supports the efforts of women and families to retain options for non-interventive care and advocates for the acceptance of the philosophy of natural childbirth. Founded in May, 2008 CABO believes that all expecting women should have access to the model of care that matches their personal philosophy and needs.

There is an enormous demand for holistic, non-interventive, individualized, comprehensive, compassionate care during pregnancy and childbirth. Yet this care is not covered by current health insurance policies and today’s tough economic conditions make it difficult for young families to afford. A recent CDC study concluded that midwives providing non-interventive care cost less than physicians and have equally good, if not better outcomes for low-risk women. Current trends, statistics and media coverage all point towards a growing need for non-interventive care, birth centers and midwifery care.

In April 2010 CABO established a Scholarship program designed to financially assist expecting women who are interested in delivering their babies in a natural environment but were unable to fulfill the birth plan due to financial hardship or lack of insurance coverage. To date over$35,000 has been awarded to expecting women needing assistance. CABO is committed to providing outreach and education to the community on alternative and complementary services for women in pregnancy and childbirth.  With your support we are able to continue community awareness as well to provide financial assistance for this unique care for families through the CABO Scholarship program.

The Community Alliance for Birth Options is the only program in Orange County whose primary mission is to educate the public about  non-interventive and out of hospital birth, greatly improving the health of mothers and babies.  CABO provides educational sessions along with a presence at local family events throughout Orange County, supporting women and families that are searching for alternative birthing options.

CABO also works closely with Natural Birth Providers in Southern California and is spreading rapidly throughout the state; as a resource not only for information and education but also to help bridge the insurance gap facing many Patients and Natural Providers.  Many of the volunteers of CABO have been direct recipients of the unique birth experience provided by joint midwife/physician care and are involved and passionate about keeping these precious options available.  Many donate their time and energy to help plan and coordinate the dinner and auction events, therefore the proceeds go directly to support the community.