Dear Friends,

One of the most rewarding parts of the Women's Foundation of Montana's (WFM) work is seeing what happens when women are given the resources and support they need to thrive.

This month, we're breaking down the 2026 Status of Montana Women report and how potential Medicaid cuts could affect access to labor and delivery care in Montana. The report, authored by the Montana Budget & Policy Center with support from WFM, highlights the gains women have made through access to health care and details the barriers that remain to achieving economic security and well-being.

Meaningful change requires sustained investment and commitment. The work of our grantees demonstrates what's possible when communities come together to create opportunity. As we look ahead, we must continue investing in the organizations and policies that help Montana women, girls, and families thrive.

Thank you for being part of that work.

The 2026 Status of Montana Women: Advancing Policy for Economic Equity report highlights the significant role Medicaid plays in supporting the health of Montana women and families. Since Medicaid expansion was implemented in 2015, the state's uninsured rate for women has dropped dramatically, and Medicaid now finances more than 40% of births in Montana. The report was written by the Montana Budget & Policy Center, with support from the Women's Foundation of Montana.

Advocates are concerned that upcoming policy changes this summer could make it harder for eligible Montanans to maintain coverage. New work requirements could result in thousands of adults losing access to health insurance, raising concerns about the future of maternal health care, particularly in rural communities.

Stephanie Morton, executive director of Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies — The Montana Coalition, said she’s concerned about losing rural labor and delivery services that rely on Medicaid reimbursements to sustain their operations. Montana already faces significant challenges in providing maternity care across the state.

Visit the Women's Foundation of Montana website to read more about what these changes could mean for women, families, and health care access in Montana, as well as the policy recommendations outlined in the report.

WFM is a powerful force for philanthropy in Montana because of your support. WFM grantees lead the way in creating strong communities that work for women and girls.

Learn more about WFM grantees here and see our 2025 funding summary.