CRIBS FOR KIDS
Friday, November 28th, 2008 -- 9:33 AM
A new Clark County program offers free cribs for families in need.?Cribs for Kids? began in September thanks to $2,500 in grant money from the Listeman Foundation, Mid Wisconsin Bank, Memorial Medical Center and the Pamida Foundation.
Jessica Thomsen with the Clark County Health Department says they've already given 7 Graco Pack ?n Plays away. Proper sleeping arrangements can prevent Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, a leading killer of newborns.
"We get a referral, or a family can call me...get enrolled in the program and get their free Pack 'n Play," Thomsen says.
Hand-me-down cribs and mattresses can be hazardous.
"Check the crib for safety," Thomsen urges, "There should be a firm, tight-fitting mattress so the baby can't get trapped between the mattress and the crib, no missing parts on the crib. Getting one from a family member or friend that's over 2 to 3 years old may not be safe for an infant."
Other tips for preventing SIDS include keep infants away from sheets and heavy blankets, have infants sleep on their backs and keep toys out of the crib.
To qualify for a free crib, parents must meet certain income requirements. Applicants are required to watch a video on SIDS prevention and listen to a Health Department education session.
The Clark County Health Department has enough funding to purchase 50 pack ?n plays. Anyone with information should call Thomsen at 715-743-5114.
[url=http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sudden_infant_death_syndrome]SIDS Info[/url]
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