When the Hogue family faced a sudden preeclampsia diagnosis at 35 weeks, the resulting early induction and NICU stay taught them that birth plans can change in an instant. Determined to turn that frightening experience into a resource for other families, James Hogue founded Fathers Assisting Mothers, a Kansas City‑based program that prepares expectant fathers for the challenges of pregnancy, childbirth and the first year after delivery.
Why the program matters in Missouri
Missouri now ranks among the states with the highest number of “maternity care deserts.” More than one‑third of the state’s counties lack a labor and delivery unit, and over half of all counties have no local obstetric services. Families in those areas often must travel long distances for prenatal care or delivery, making early preparation and awareness of resources essential.
James Hogue explains, “When you live in a county without a hospital that offers labor and delivery, you need to know what signs to watch for, where the nearest facility is, and how to support your partner if something goes wrong.” The program’s curriculum reflects that reality.
Program structure
Fathers Assisting Mothers runs an eight‑week cohort that walks men through every stage of the reproductive journey—from preconception health and fertility basics to labor, delivery, and the first twelve months of postpartum life. Weekly sessions cover topics such as:
- Recognizing early warning signs of complications like preeclampsia
- Understanding medical terminology and what to expect during a hospital stay
- Practical comfort measures for labor and recovery
- How to navigate insurance, transportation and childcare logistics
- Supporting mental health and bonding with the newborn
All participants receive a handbook that lists local resources, emergency contacts and a checklist for birth‑plan contingencies. The program also partners with nearby hospitals and community health centers to offer tours and Q&A sessions with obstetricians and neonatal nurses.
Impact so far
Since its launch, Fathers Assisting Mothers has trained 50 men across the Kansas City metro area. Participants report feeling more confident in recognizing complications and advocating for their partners. One graduate, Michael Torres, said, “I went from feeling helpless during my wife’s pregnancy to being able to ask the right questions and keep calm when we were rushed to the NICU.”
The Hogues hope the model can be replicated in other parts of Missouri where maternity services are scarce. They are currently seeking additional funding and volunteer clinicians to expand the program to neighboring counties.
Community response
Local faith leaders and family‑focused organizations have praised the initiative for reinforcing traditional family roles and promoting parental responsibility. Pastor Daniel Lee of a nearby church noted, “Teaching fathers to be active, informed partners strengthens families and aligns with our biblical call to protect and provide for the household.”
While some critics argue that resources should focus on reopening closed hospitals, the Hogues contend that education and preparedness are immediate, low‑cost solutions that can save lives while longer‑term policy work continues.
As Missouri grapples with a dwindling network of maternity providers, programs like Fathers Assisting Mothers offer a practical way for families to navigate the uncertainty and ensure that expectant parents are not left without support.
Original reporting: KSHB 41 Kansas City (local) — read the source article.
