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The Maternal Justice Coalition of Long Island
February 2026 E-Newsletter
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Welcome to the latest edition of the Maternal Justice Coalition of Long Island newsletter! This publication is a collaboration between the Health & Welfare Council of Long Island (HWCLI) and the Women's Diversity Network, bringing you important updates and insights to support maternal health and justice across Long Island. In this issue, we are excited to highlight three key sections:
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Advocacy & Legislation: Latest policy changes and legislative efforts
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Resources: Find valuable tools and services
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Events: Discover upcoming workshops, webinars, and events
| | Honoring Dr. Janell Green Smith | | The Maternal Justice Coalition Steering Committee honors the life and legacy of Dr. Janell Green Smith, a devoted midwife, nurse, and maternal health leader whose work strengthened families, advanced birth equity, and uplifted the maternal health community. Her commitment to compassionate, culturally grounded care and her leadership within the birth and nursing workforce touched countless lives. We mourn her tragic passing and stand in solidarity with her family, colleagues, and the communities she served. Her legacy remains a call to continue the work of maternal justice with courage, urgency, and care. | |
The CARE Act: S4583/A4879
New Hour's CARE (Compassion and Reproductive Equity Act), sponsored by Senator Salazar and Assemblywoman Kelles, establishes a comprehensive human rights-based statutory policy relating to incarcerated pregnant or postpartum individuals and their children in NYS and local correctional facilities.
The CARE Act:
- Requires comprehensive prenatal and reproductive care as well as adequate nutrition for pregnant incarcerated people.
- Ensures dignity in delivery where public health best practices are reflected for incarcerated birthing people.
- Ensures decreased infant mortality for babies born behind bars.
- Requires comprehensive postnatal care and nurturing safe spaces for parent-child bonding.
- Eliminates unjust separation of baby and mother while behind bars.
- Establishes nurseries in all NYS prisons and jails to keep moms and babies together
Take Action Today, visit the following links to learn more and take action:
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Supporting Families Together Act: Senate Bill S8602
Information about the bill:
- Sponsored by Senator Julia Salazar
- Removes civil and criminal penalties for mandated reporters; repeals certain provisions relating thereto.
- The purpose of this bill is to eliminate the threat of penalties for mandated reporters who do not make a report of suspected child abuse or neglect.
- Currently in senate committee
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Senate Bill S6496/Assembly Bill A7760
Information about the bill:
- Requires any hospital that provides birthing services to provide written, educational material containing information about premature, newborn infants
- Currently in committee
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Assembly Bill A4879A
Information about the bill:
- Relates to the health, safety and human rights of incarcerated pregnant individuals, incarcerated birthing parents of children and their children
- Currently in assembly committee
| | Maternal Health Resources | |
Connect With A Doula
The Health and Welfare Council of Long Island can connect you with a doula- whether you have Medicaid or are paying privately. Scan the QR code to complete a short consultation form and get matched with a doula today!
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Need Health Insurance? HWCLI Can Help
The Health and Welfare Council of Long Island's Healthcare Access Team can assist individuals and families with enrolling in the NY State of Health Marketplace. Healthcare Access Team can help with 1-1 assistance with applications and renewals, comparing plan costs and benefits, and assistance in any language. Scan to complete the referral form today!
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Get Help Applying for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Today
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program helps you buy healthy food every month with an EBT card at grocery stores, farmers markets and online retailers. HWCLI can help to see if you qualify, renew your benefits, and get help with your paperwork. All services are free and confidential.
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HEALI Social Care Network
The Health and Welfare Council of Long Island launched the HEALI Social Care Network in January 2025. The HEALI Social Care Network aims to improve health outcomes for Medicaid members by addressing Health-Related Social Needs (HRSNs)—such as food insecurity, housing instability, and lack of transportation—through a coordinated and community-based approach. Take the opportunity to find out more information about HEALI and the resources available for Medicaid members.
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FREE Childbirth and Doula Workshop
Join Harmony Healthcare Long Island for their Harmony Pregnancy, Birth & Beyond Perinatal and Infant Community Health Collaborative free childbirth and doula workshop at Harmony Healthcare LI Westbury Clinic. This workshop is held every 4th Wednesday from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM at 682 Union Ave, Westbury, NY 11590.
This informative session covers healthy pregnancy tips, practical and physical skills for labor, natural comfort measures to ease childbirth pain, postpartum care, breastfeeding information, and doula services. Don't miss this opportunity to begin your birth journey with expert guidance and support.
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Support Circle for Black Moms
The Support Circle for Black Moms is a nurturing community designed to help new Black mothers navigate the joys and challenges of postpartum life. This program offers a safe space to connect with other new moms, share experiences, receive practical advice, and gain emotional support. Organized by Harmony Healthcare Long Island, Women's Diversity Network, and Hofstra University, the initiative aims to foster a supportive environment for Black mothers. For more information or to sign up, contact cburnett@womensdiversitynetwork.org.
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Pregnancy Support Circles
Are you black and pregnant, or thinking about having a child? Join the Pregnancy Support Circles, a free, safe space to share your pregnancy journey. Hosted by Harmony Healthcare Long Island in partnership with Women’s Diversity Network and Hofstra University, this group offers supportive discussions, expert advice from doctors, midwives, and doulas, and education through storytelling to help you advocate for yourself and your family. Learn more at bit.ly/womensupportcircle.
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Dad's Support Circle
The Dad’s Support Circles provide a supportive space for new fathers and fathers-to-be as they prepare for parenthood. Participants will explore their roles and responsibilities during and after pregnancy, share their experiences in a nonjudgmental environment, discuss the emotional aspects of fatherhood, and build confidence in their parenting journey. Hosted virtually on Zoom, this program is organized by Harmony Healthcare Long Island, Women's Diversity Network, and Hofstra University. To register, email cburnett@womensdiversitynetwork.org
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Northwell's Preeclampsia Resources
Northwell Health and The Center for Maternal Health presents "Know Your Preeclampsia Risk." Preeclampsia is persistent high blood that develops during or right after pregnancy. A low dose of aspirin can prevent early onset and decrease symptoms in those with moderate or high risk. Call (516) 918 - 6008 for more preeclampsia resources.
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Pregnancy + The #1 Worldwide Pregnancy App
Available to all pregnant and postpartum New Yorkers. Personalized to you and your baby. Medicaid-eligible members get 12 months of free Premium access with extra content and tools. Pregnancy+ is your daily guide to a healthy pregnancy and confident parenthood, with expert tips and trusted healthcare advice.
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Project TEACH
Supporting New York State professionals in delivering quality Maternal Mental Health Support Services including consulting, referrals and education. Join their Webinar Wednesday to learn about Maternal Mental Health Care and Child and Adolescent Health starting on February 25th from Noon -1PM. Call Project TEACH Monday-Friday from 9am- 5pm at 1855-227-7272.
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BELI (Baby Essentials of Long Island)
BELI insists that the dignity, health, welfare, and development of all children is of paramount importance to society as a whole. If you are in need of donations and support, please visit the website for more info at BELI site, or email at info@babyessentialsofli.org. BELI is taking donations! Please reach out to donate. Link to donate below.
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NTTAP CoP: Introduction to Fetal Heart Monitoring
This Community of Practice will provide education on the fundamentals of fetal heart monitoring. Participants will be able to: 1. understand the physiological principles of fetal heart monitoring, 2. accurately interpret fetal heart rate patterns and identify signs of fetal distress, 3. implement appropriate clinical interventions based on fetal heart monitoring results, and 4. enhance communication skills to effectively discuss fetal heart monitoring with patients and their families.
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Doula Coverage for Medicaid Members
New York State Medicaid now offers a comprehensive benefit for doula services, providing physical, emotional, educational, and non-medical support for pregnant and postpartum individuals. Medicaid members can receive up to 8 doula visits during and after pregnancy, as well as continuous labor support during childbirth, at no cost.
Doulas assist with developing birth plans, offering patient-centered advocacy, facilitating communication with medical providers, and connecting families to community resources. This support extends through the perinatal, childbirth, postpartum, and newborn periods, including situations like abortion, miscarriage, and stillbirth. Medicaid-enrolled doulas are reimbursed for their services, ensuring accessible care for all eligible members. Learn more about this valuable benefit at health.ny.gov/doula.
Are you interested in becoming a Medicaid-reimbursable Doula? If so, please reach out to Randalle Lewis, HWCLI's Advocacy and Coalition Manager for more information at rlewis@hwcli.com
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FREE Resources for New or Expecting Mothers
Harmony Healthcare Long Island, in partnership with Women’s Diversity Network and Hofstra University School of Health Professions and Human Services, offers free support services for those who are currently pregnant or have recently had a baby.
Services include connections to community resources and support (such as food, baby items, and diapers), educational workshops, developing birth and postpartum plans, securing health insurance, finding a doctor and transportation, support groups, nutrition and parenting classes, and connection to doula services. Services are available in Spanish and Haitian Creole. For appointments, call (516) 396-0389 or email PICH@harmonyhealthcareli.org. Visit www.harmonyhealthcareli.org/pichc/ for more information. You are not alone!
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Introducing Doula Notes: A New Platform Supporting Doulas and Birth Equity
HWCLI is proud to announce the launch of Doula Notes, a first-of-its-kind web-based platform. Developed in collaboration with KratosDP. Doula Notes is designed specifically to support doulas serving Long Island within Medicaid Managed Care Organizations by reducing administrative burdens, improving care coordination, and ultimately advancing birth equity across New York State. The platform offers a secure, streamlined way for doulas to track appointments, birth outcomes, and client data—all in one place—allowing them to spend less time on paperwork and more time providing compassionate, continuous care to the families they serve. Doula Notes is more than just an app—it’s an investment in maternal justice and a step forward in building equitable health infrastructure.
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Next Maternal Justice Coalition Meeting on 2/24
Join us for our next Maternal Justice Coalition Meeting on Tuesday February 24th at 11AM. If you do not have the invitation, please reach out to maternalhealth@hwcli.com or CBurnett@womensdiversitynetwork.org. Our discussion will include Equitable Access to Doula, Midwifery, & Lactation Services, Education & Legislative Advocacy, Mental Health Screenings for Birth Workers, Safe Spaces for Black Women, and Perinatal and Postpartum Kits.
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Bilingual Doula Training Opportunity
The Health and Welfare Council of Long Island (HWCLI) has partnered with Chanel’s Comforting Doula Care and the National Black Doula Association to host a FREE Bilingual Birth Doula Training in English and Spanish. This training is designed to expand access to doula education and strengthen culturally responsive care in our communities. Visit www.tinyurl.com/DOULASCHOLARSHIP to apply.
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Virtual Doula Info Session
Join the Health & Welfare Council of Long Island, in collaboration with the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) and Project TEACH, for a virtual information session designed for doulas and perinatal care providers.
What You’ll Learn:
- How to become a Medicaid-enrolled provider
- No-cost services to support the maternal mental health needs of your perinatal clients
- Introduction to DoulaNotes, a digital tool created by doulas to streamline client management (free for all Medicaid-enrolled doulas)
Event Details:
Date: Wednesday March 11th
Time: 4-6PM
Location: Virtual via Microsoft Teams
Registration: Click here to register or visit www.tinyurl.com/HWCLIDOULA311
Attendees will also be able to participate in an open forum to network, share resources, and connect with fellow doulas. Take advantage of this opportunity to expand your skills, connect with peers, and enhance the care you provide to your clients.
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Women's Diversity Network's Diversity Summit
The Women's Diversity Network's 9th Annual Diversity Summit is more than an event, it's an experience! We're inviting mission-aligned organizations and businesses to join us on Saturday April 25th from 9am - 2pm at Nassau Community College as valued sponsors and be part of a powerful day centered on equity, culture, and community connection. Registration is now open. Sponsorship opportunities are available. Learn more and register below.
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Strengthening Our Families: Workshops for Emotional Well-being and Conscious Parenting
Cornell Cooperative Extension's Health and Family Well-Being educators are pleased to offer free virtual programs, focused on the well-being of the entire family. The programs will be facilitated in Spanish. Pre-registration is required.
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Early Childhood Nutrition and Feeding Webinar
Join Northwell Health on February 11th 6:30-7:30PM or April 17th 12-1pm for an information session about feeding infants and toddlers. Registration is required. Sign up today!
| Stony Brook Medicine Community Baby Shower Hosted by the Underrepresented in Medicine (URiM) Committee on April 15th from 10:30 am - 1pm at South Country Library 22 Station Road Bellport. During this special event, there will be brief information sessions about common pregnancy and postpartum concerns, such as: CPR (demonstration only), Community doula support, Family planning, Lactation consulting, WIC (Women, Infants and Children Nutrition Program) and more. | |
The B.I.R.T.H Initiative
Attention students! Stony Brook's Program in Public Health is offering an opportunity to collaborate on projects promoting equity in MCH. Join them on March 10th from 3pm-5pm in person to learn more!
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Suffolk County Department of Health FREE Perinatal Health Services
Are you pregnant or a new parent? The Suffolk County Department of Health Services provides free and confidential perinatal health services to support a healthy pregnancy, baby, and family in Babylon, Brookhaven, Islip, and Riverhead Townships. Services include home-visiting case management, assistance with medical care, insurance, and community resources, individual and family wellness assessments, and education on pregnancy, childbirth, reproductive health, and newborn care. For more information, call 631-854-4023 or visit healthybabyandme.org. Bilingual support is available, and the flyer is also offered in Spanish (“Programa de Servicios de Salud Perinatal”) to ensure accessibility. Click here to view the flyer.
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The Postpartum Resource Center of New York
Are you a new or expecting parent on Long Island? You’re not alone. The Postpartum Resource Center of New York offers free and confidential support for families navigating pregnancy and postpartum mental health challenges.
Services include:
✔️ Peer support
✔️ Helpline assistance
✔️ Local mental health resources
✔️ Family education
✔️ Culturally responsive support
Learn more about postpartum mental health services on Long Island at:
🔗 postpartumny.org/longisland
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Babylon Lactation Clinic
Good Samaritan University Hospital has opened the St. Anne Outpatient Lactation Clinic in Babylon to provide breastfeeding support for new mothers after hospital discharge. The clinic, located at the Catholic Health Physician Partners Pediatric Specialty Care Center, offers educational, clinical, and emotional support to improve maternal and infant health. Funded by a $100,000 grant from the John C. Dunphy Private Foundation, the initiative addresses a critical need for postpartum lactation care. To learn more visit:
https://www.catholichealthli.org/news/good-samaritan-university-hospital-opens-new-lactation-clinic-babylon
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Smart Suffolk Boss Babies
A no-cost, in home program serving the Wyandanch and Bellport communities. Serving mothers in their 3rd trimester and families with children under 2.5 years old. Call or email to learn more and sign up 631-854-0378 / smartstartsuffolk@suffolkcountyny.gov
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Birthing Justice: Navigating Child Services ICE, and Policing in Reproductive Care
Join Repro TLC for a free virtual workshop facilitated by Afro-Indigenous birth worker Akira Clelia Da Costa De Carlos on February 12th from 6:30-8:30PM!
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Valentine's Mom and Children Event
Attention Moms and Children! Join St. Boniface for a relaxed, judgement free evening where Moms can connect while children enjoy decorative Valentines Day cookies! Saturday Feb 28th from 4:30pm-6:30pm in Lindenhurst. RSVP to Dorinda Richberg at (917) 478-3914.
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Nassau County Perinatal Services Network's Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders Task Force
Are you pregnant or have you had a baby in the past year? Have you been crying a lot? Feeling very tired? Not sleeping or sleeping too much? Have you been feeling overwhelmed? Irritable or angry? Anxious? Guilty or worthless? Do you sometimes have thoughts about yourself or your baby that make you worried or afraid? Do you know a mother-to-be or new mother struggling with issues like these? THERE IS HELP.
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Childbirth and Postpartum Education Classes
Voulez-Vous a Doula and More is now offering childbirth and postpartum education classes. The program provides professional, evidence-based education and support, including Childbirth/Lamaze Education, Lactation Consultation, Labor and Delivery Support, and Postpartum and Newborn Care Education.
Classes are held on Thursdays from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM and Saturdays from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Kennedy Memorial Park Recreation Center, located at 335 Greenwich Street, Hempstead, NY 11550. Click here to learn more.
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Circle of Caring
Join Northwell South Shore University Hospital's 8-week Postpartum Depression Support Group. Scan the QR code if you are interested in attending! If you have questions, email Marie at mkeogh2@northwell.edu or call 631-894-5282.
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Monthly Open Hours Session for Hospital Doula-Friendliness: Roles in Harmony-How Doulas Support Birth Without Replacing Medical Care
Attention all Hospital Systems! NYCDA is hosting monthly open hours sessions are designed to provide technical assistance and support for hospitals seeking to create a more doula-friendly environment through use of the Hospital Doula-Friendliness Guidebook. For hospitals that have already embraced the doula-friendly process, these sessions are a chance to build on your foundation, troubleshoot challenges, and deepen your commitment to doula support. Please note: the audience for these sessions is hospital staff/clinicians.
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Caring for your Child's Mental Health
Join Cornell Cooperative Extension on Wednesdays to talk about the difficult things in your children's and teen's lives like social media, alcohol and drug use. Registration is required for each course.
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Help Open Long Island's First-Ever Midwife-Led Birth Center
Join us in building Long Island's first-ever midwife-led Birth Center- a sacred and safe space where every birthing person, especially birthing people of color, can birth with dignity and support. Donate today!
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New Study: The Role of Doulas in Identifying Symptoms of Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders and Providing Referrals to Mental Health Services
Are you a practicing doula? You are invited to participate in a research study focused on the training and work experiences of Doulas regarding Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs). The study aims to gain insights into the practices and experiences of doulas in addressing PMADs. Your perspective as a practitioner could significantly contribute to the advancement of knowledge and improving care in this important area.
📝Scan the QR code or click here to fill out the survey
If you have questions please contact Liat Shklarski at LS1185@HUNTER.CUNY.EDU
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Research Study on Infant Health and Parenting: Seeking Pregnant Hispanic/Latina People Who Receive or are Eligible for WIC!
Northwell's Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research is looking for participants for their research study on infant health and parenting. Participants will receive online prenatal and infant health education, complete quick surveys, and receive compensation for their time. All participants must be pregnant (24-32 weeks), English and or Spanish speaking, 18+ years old, and be enrolled in or eligible for WIC.
Interested in participating? Click here or email step-out@northwell.edu
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The Black Coalition for Safe Motherhood (BCFSM) and Capella University: Black Motherhood Study
The Black Coalition for Safe Motherhood (BCFSM) and Capella University doctoral candidate Lisa Cohn are conducting a study to explore the impact of our 90-minute virtual ACTT workshop. ACTT is a powerful and interactive experience that helps moms learn how to:
A-sk questions until they understand the answers
C-laim their space in healthcare settings
T-rust their bodies
T-ell their stories
We are looking for volunteers who:
✔️ Identify as Black women
✔️ Are currently pregnant (between 14–26 weeks)
✔️ Are receiving prenatal care
✔️ Are between 18–45 years old
✔️ Can read and write in English
Participants will receive $100 as a thank-you for their time, and their total time commitment is approximately 2.5 hours over 6–8 weeks.
All ACTT Workshops and surveys are online, and personal information is kept 100% confidential.
To refer or sign up, contact:
Lisa Cohn, M.S.
lcohn@capellauniversity.edu
914-552-0426
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Opportunities to Serve the Community!
Cornell Cooperative Extension is looking for a Breastfeed Peer Counselor. The Bilingual WIC Breastfeeding Peer Counselor is a part of Peer Counselor Team. Following the NYS DOH WIC Loving Support model, she performs optimally and meets the program's needs. Routine quality assessments (QA) are performed on each PC to promote constant improvement. Coordination will take place at WIC centers. Collect and Manage participant data ensuring confidentiality at all times. This position is grant-funded for a limited time through the WIC office and Suffolk County Department of Health Services. Click below to learn more.
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The Ronald McDonald House is looking for Volunteers
A simple volunteer application and interview will determine how we can best use your talents to support our families. Afterward, applicants must pass a criminal background check and provide a health statement from their physician. All of our volunteers receive training on the mission of RMHC New York Metro and our programs that serve children and families throughout the greater New York Metro area.
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