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Greene County Public Health is announcing its new ‘Every Baby Sleeps Safe’ program to help local families give their babies a safe place to sleep. This grant-based program is offered through the Ohio Department of Children and Youth. Every Baby Sleeps Safe is open to Greene County families who are at least 32 weeks pregnant through their child’s first birthday.
Families who qualify can receive a kit with items to help create a safe sleep space for their baby. Each kit includes:
-A pack ‘n play
-A sheet
-A firm, flat sleep surface
-A sleep sack
-A onesie
-A pacifier
-Safe sleep information
The program is based on income. Families must show proof that they qualify. This may include a Medicaid, WIC, or SNAP card. Families may also show a pay stub or other proof of income.
Safe Sleep Education Is an Important Part of the Program
Every Baby Sleeps Safe is about more than giving families a pack ‘n play. Parents and caregivers will take part in a safe sleep lesson during their appointment, where they will learn how to set up and safely use the pack ‘n play and have any questions answered. Families can expect an appointment to take about 30 minutes to one hour. The time may vary based on paperwork, the safe sleep lesson, pack ‘n play setup, and any questions from the family.
“This program is about more than giving a family a pack ‘n play,” said Harley Dawson, Health Educator for Greene County Public Health. “We want parents and caregivers to understand how to create a safe sleep space and have the information they need to help keep their baby safe.”
Greene County Public Health will also check in with families after the baby is born. Staff will reach out a few weeks after the baby’s expected due date to see how the family is doing and ask if they need more help or services. Families may also be connected with Help Me Grow and other home visiting programs.
Families who need a pack ‘n play or car seat must first fill out the Crib and Car Seat Request Form on the Ohio Buckles Buckeyes (OBB) page of Greene County Public Health’s website. A staff member will review the form and contact families who qualify to set up an appointment.
Crib and car seat appointments will be offered on Tuesdays while supplies last. Greene County Public Health also plans to hold monthly crib and car seat events on the second Tuesday of each month. The agency hopes to begin these events in October or November, based on when supplies arrive.
The planned schedule is:
1–2 p.m. — Safe sleep class and pack ‘n play distribution
2–3 p.m. — Car seat distribution
Families who cannot attend the monthly event may still complete the request form and schedule an appointment on another Tuesday.
If you have questions about this program, please email Harley at [email protected] or call 937-374-5617.
For more information about Greene County Public Health, visit www.greenecophoh.gov.
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