Cribs for Kids helps reduce SIDS in ND

by Anna Jauhola • Daily News
Published/Last Modified on Friday, February 5, 2010 3:07 PM CST

Pregnant women can take advantage of a new program in North Dakota to help keep their newborns safe from accidental death. Through the Optimal Pregnancy Outcome Program (OPOP), eight departments of health in the state are offering the Cribs for Kids program.

"To qualify for the crib, they have to be enrolled in our OPOP," said Lindsay Miller, program coordinator at Richland County Health Department. "Those enrolled will receive extra education... and screening throughout the pregnancy."

Miller said any pregnant woman may enroll in the program, whether they just got pregnant or are close to delivering. Once they are in the program, Miller will evaluate whether they qualify for a portable crib.

Advertisement






"If they don't have a crib at home or have a safe place for their baby to sleep, we will give them (a crib)," Miller said. "If grandma's watching the baby on a regular basis and she doesn't have a crib... we may provide one for her."

There are no guidelines as far as income is considered, Miller said.

"We're trying to prevent (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome)," she added. "If they're not sleeping in a safe environment, we want to help with that."

The Cribs for Kids program is a national program, but just started this week in North Dakota, according to Kjertsi Hintz, who is with the state division of family health. A grant through the Ronald McDonald Charities in Bismarck and Fargo made the program possible.

To enroll in OPOP, contact Miller at 642-7735.


¤ Please read our Disclaimer and Privacy Policy before participating in our online community.

Comments


Post a comment


Comment posters are responsible for the opinions they express and the accuracy of the information they provide. We urge comment writers to treat this as a public forum where manners matter. We encourage a collegial, non-insulting tone. All readers comments must be approved by our staff before posting to the Web site. Be aware, in accordance with the Communications Decency Act and provisions upheld in judicial appeal, that you are responsible for comments posted on this Web site. The Daily News is not liable for messages from third parties.

DO NOT POST:
* Potentially libelous statements or damaging innuendo.
* Obscene, explicit, or racist language.
* Personal attacks, insults or threats.
* The use of another person's real name to disguise your identity.
* Comments unrelated to the story.

Opinions, advice and all other information expressed in wahpetondailynews.com's reader comments represent the individual's own views and not necessarily those of the The Daily News. The Daily News does not endorse and is not responsible for statements, advice or opinions offered by anyone other than authorized The Daily News spokespersons.

Thank you for your comments!

(optional)
   

Classifieds

CONTACT

    Phone: (701) 642-8585
    Fax: (701) 642-6068

Advertisement


Advertisement