A number of community organizations are coming together to combat infant mortality caused by dangerous sleeping arrangements.
Fort Wayne UNITED, along with Healthier Moms and Babies are overseeing the Infant Mortality Challenge, which will raise money to provide safer sleeper options.
With the goal of raising $50,000, the program will allow Healthier Moms and Babies to deliver 500 pack-n-play cribs to families in need within Fort Wayne, and to send a family case coordinator to the family’s home to educate about safe sleeping.
Fort Wayne UNITED’s Ten Point Coalition will focus outreach on the area of the community most at-risk, the Oxford Community in the 46806 zip code. Over the last five years, dangerous sleeping arrangements.3 have claimed 25 lives in Allen County, according to a press release.
Trinity English Lutheran Church pledged $18,000 as a lead gift. The St. Joseph Community Health Foundation will work with Healthier Moms and Babies to coordinate pack-n-play deliveries to other areas in need.
Fort Wayne Mayor Tom Henry praised the coordinated effort, calling it a step in the right direction to improve the health of the community.
