Rep. Baker secures $1.2M to combat infant mortality

Contributed COLUMBUS – State Rep. Rachel Baker (D-Cincinnati) announced on July 9 that the Controlling Board has approved $1.2 million under the Department of Children & Youth with the aim of combating infant mortality. The funds will be used in partnership with the nonprofit organization Cribs for Kids which will provide eligible parents with education on the importance of and how to practice safe sleep with their infant. Cribs for Kids will furnish parents a product to allow them to put their babies to sleep safely and assist with practicing safe sleep.  “In Ohio, there are seven infant deaths for every 1,000 live births – which is the 43rd worst state in the country. Additionally, Black infants in Ohio have a mortality rate almost three times higher than the mortality rate of white infants,” said Baker. “There is a lot of work to do to make Ohio a great state for infants. I am pleased to announce these resources being directed to address this crisis.” The contract also supports the distribution of Cribs for Kids Survival Kits to eligible at-risk families in 71 counties. The survival kits include tools necessary for preventing infant mortality such as portable cribs, fitted crib...