Healthy Start Coalition of Sarasota County is a dedicated organization with a mission to enhance the health and well-being of pregnant women, infants, and families. Our commitment is reflected in our diverse programs and activities, which are designed to empower parents with the knowledge and support they need for their journey into parenthood.
About Us
We believe that it takes a community to raise a child, and we’re here to help you find yours. We collaborate with various non-profits, organizations, and agencies in Sarasota County to create a supportive and healthy environment for babies to thrive.
Our history dates back to the early 1990s when Florida’s Healthy Start Program was initiated to combat the state’s high infant mortality rate. The program encouraged the formation of local coalitions to provide high-quality prenatal care and health care for at-risk children. Sarasota County formed its own coalition in 1998 to address specific local issues affecting pregnant women, new mothers, and infants. Today, we continue to provide resources, support, and assistance to ensure healthy pregnancies and births in our community.
As we move forward, the Healthy Start Coalition of Sarasota County remains committed to our mission. We continue to innovate and adapt our programs to meet the evolving needs of our community. We believe that every child deserves a healthy start in life, and we’re dedicated to making this a reality in Sarasota County. By fostering partnerships with local medical professionals, schools, charities, and social services agencies, we’re able to provide comprehensive support to mothers, newborns, and families.
Say hello to our team
Our Mission is to Improve the Health and Well-being of Pregnant Women, Infants, and Families in Sarasota County
Sara Olesen
Casey Jimenez
Darine Murray
Shon Ewens
Alecia Williams
Curtis Hayes
Patricia McMahon
Laura Winn
Yazmil Soriano
Care Coordination Team
Our Care Coordination team is the heart of the Healthy Start Program. Care Coordinators serve moms and families in our community, regardless of income, insurance coverage, or residency status, by providing individualized care, support, education, and referrals for specialized service needs.
Office located at:
2200 Ringling Blvd
Sarasota, FL 34237
(941) 861-2905
- Mara Cunha, LCSW, Program Administrator – (941) 861-2813
- Odhet Ortega
- Flor Ortiz
- Julio Camacho
- Luciana Nogueira
- Ann Monville, RN, MNN, CLC
- Carol Bilotti
- Geraldine Franco