According the CDC, nationally there are around 3,500 sleep-related deaths each year. Healthcare providers recommend placing babies on their back for every sleep. Unfortunately 22% of new mothers report not placing their baby on his/her back.
Prevent Child Abuse Boone County is a small committee of service providers and community members who provide information on all forms of child abuse prevention. Prior to the COVID 19 pandemic they were granted funds from the Women of Impact, a giving circle facilitated by the Community Foundation of Boone County. The purpose of this grant is to teach new parents the importance of safe sleep practices. Becky McClure, Boone County CASA 2020, proposed the safe sleep onesie campaign. This year the campaign was able to evolve through partnerships with Witham Hospital, Prevent Child Abuse Boone County, Boone County Department of Child Services, Women of Impact, and the Community Foundation of Boone County.
Each new baby born at Witham Hospital will receive a onesie with the slogan “This Side Up” on the tummy. This is to remind parents “Back is Best” for sleeping babies. This program is currently funded through 2023, we have allocated funds and onesies for the expected births of over 1,000 babies. If you would like to donate or become involved in this project, please contact [email protected]. For more information on safe sleep practices please visit www.cdc.gov/vitalsigns .