Project
Butterfly
Transforming grief into action.
Uplifting stories. Advancing change.
INITIATIVE IMPACT
3X
IN ALLEGHENY COUNTY, BLACK WOMAN ARE 3X MORE LIKELY TO DIE OF PREGNANCY RELATED CAUSES THAN WHITE WOMEN.
3.3X
IN ALLEGHENY COUNTY, BLACK INFANTS ARE 3.3 TIMES MORE LIKELY TO DIE IN THE FIRST YEAR AS COMPARED TO WHITE INFANTS.
#1
PRETERM BIRTH WAS THE LEADING UNDERLYING CAUSE OF INFANT MORTALITY IN PENNSYLVANIA BETWEEN 2013-2022.
Mission & Vision
Mission: The Allegheny County Fetal-Infant Mortality Review (Project Butterfly) exists to reduce fetal and infant deaths by examining the circumstances surrounding pregnancy and infant loss, identifying systemic gaps, and driving compassionate, evidence-based solutions. Through collaboration across healthcare, social services, and community partners, family storytelling, and community engagement, we work to improve services, resources, and outcomes for women, infants, and families—especially those most impacted by inequities.
Vision: A future where every pregnancy is supported, every birth is safe, and every family—regardless of race or circumstance—has equitable access to care, resources, and respect. We envision a community where systemic barriers are dismantled, Black births are celebrated, and loss is met with empathy, healing, and meaningful change.
History
Project Butterfly is part of a national FIMR movement reshaping how communities understand and respond to infant loss.
The Community-Based Approach to Infant Mortality through the Fetal Infant Mortality Review Program (FIMR) is a national initiative established over three decades ago as a collaborative effort between the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the federal Maternal and Child Health Bureau (MCHB), part of the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. FIMR teams review fetal and infant deaths, identify contributing factors, and recommend community-based interventions to prevent future losses.
As of 2024, there are more than 150 active FIMR programs operating in 23 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. In Pennsylvania, there are currently two local FIMR programs, one in Allegheny County and one in Philadelphia, highlighting a continued opportunity to expand this approach across the state.
Click here to read our Birth Plan.
Want to explore infant and maternal health data? Visit the Allegheny County Birth Data Dashboard.
PILLARS OF IMPACT
We believe in the power of medical data, storytelling, research, and collaboration to improve maternal and infant health outcomes in Allegheny County and beyond.
CASE REVIEW TEAM (CRT)
Examines fetal and infant deaths to uncover systemic gaps and barriers. Reviews case summaries, analyzes data from medical and social service records, and reports findings to guide community action.
STORY COLLECTION
Conducts confidential interviews with families who have experienced loss to understand their care experiences and identify opportunities for improvement. Ensures privacy and provides a safe, supportive environment.
COMMUNITY ACTION TEAM (CAT)
Advises and assists in the preparation and implementation of educational programs and activities for the community, clients, and service providers.
CLINICAL ACTION COLLABORATIVE (CAC)
Partners with clinical providers and community members to leverage and identify gaps in care, recommend evidence-based interventions, and support the implementation of best practices within clinical spaces.
FOCUS AREAS
FETAL MOVEMENT EDUCATION
Project Butterfly is partnering with Count the Kicks to help prevent stillbirth by promoting third-trimester fetal movement monitoring. The free app lets expectant parents track movements and share data with providers, providing early warnings of changes. We invite prenatal care partners in Allegheny County to integrate this evidence-based tool into routine visits to improve birth outcomes and standardize responses to fetal movement concerns.
TRAUMA-INFORMED CARE
Project Butterfly has launched a trauma-informed care training for undergraduate nursing students at the University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing. During their pediatric rotations, junior-level students review case scenarios to learn the fundamentals of trauma-informed care. We piloted the program with five student groups and look forward to offering it again in Spring 2026.
COMMUNITY BLOOD PRESSURE EDUCATION
Our blood pressure initiative tackles the disproportionate impact of hypertension on Black birthing people in Allegheny County, where heart disease remains a leading cause of death. High blood pressure raises the risk of severe maternal complications, making early education and monitoring vital.
Through community-based programs, we improve access to blood pressure resources, promote heart-healthy behaviors, and reduce hypertensive disorders of pregnancy—especially in neighborhoods like Wilkinsburg, North Side, and the Hill District.
STORYTELLING
Project Butterfly invites parents to share their experiences to help improve care and support for families. We want to learn about the care you received, challenges you faced, and ideas for better services. Your insights guide advocacy for stronger healthcare, social services, and community support. Sharing your story is always voluntary and on your terms.
OUR PARTNERS
INSPIRING STORIES
"When I experienced pregnancy loss, I realized how little we talk about something that affects 1 in 4 families. Project Butterfly exists to change that—destigmatizing loss, uplifting voices, and creating compassionate spaces, where grief is acknowledged, honored, and supported."
Yazmin
" After experiencing pregnancy loss myself, I looked for ways to support other families going through that experience. Project Butterfly has been a platform for strengthening my advocacy and increasing awareness about perinatal death."
Nadia
"I enjoyed getting to learn more about racial and ethnic disparities as well as ways to advocate more for my patients in the clinical setting and thinking about things I have not thought much of before this. “
Student Feedback, Trauma-Informed Care Scenario Day at Healthy Start
OUR TEAM
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