This report presents highlights from a conference convened to discuss issues related to the enhancement of the ability of urban maternal and child health (MCH) programs at the local level to improve the health and well-being of children and families. In part 1 of the document, speeches concerning the federal and local perspectives on maternal and child health as well as information introduced to dispel the myths about urban families and children are presented. Speakers include Audrey Hart Nora, Acting Director of the Maternal and Child Health Bureau of the Health Resources and Services Administration; Antonia Coella Novello, United States Assistant Surgeon General; and Paul Nannis, President of the U.S. Conference of Local Health Officers. The second and by far the longer part of the report consists of a series of profiles of successful urban MCH programs submitted by 57 cities throughout the United States. Appendices include the 1993 conference planning committee member and registrant lists, and the conference program. (GLR)