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Partnering for Infant Safety: Naturepedic and First Candle Team Up

In a significant move toward enhancing infant safety, Naturepedic, renowned for its certified organic mattresses, has formed a partnership with First Candle, a national non-profit organization dedicated to eradicating Sudden Unexpected Infant Death (SUID) through education and support. This collaboration, announced on October 1, 2025, marks an important step in addressing the alarming statistic of approximately 3,700 babies lost annually to SUID — a tragedy that disproportionately impacts infants of color.

Understanding Sudden Unexpected Infant Death (SUID)

SUID is the leading cause of death for infants under the age of one, necessitating immediate attention and action. According to First Candle, Black infants are three times more likely to die from SUID compared to their peers. The organization is committed to preventing these tragedies through community outreach and education on safe sleep practices, while also providing compassionate support to families who experience such devastating losses.

Alison Jacobson, the Executive Director and CEO of First Candle, highlighted the vital role corporations like Naturepedic can play in educating caregivers beyond just parents. She stated, "It's not only parents who need these messages; grandparents, friends, babysitters, and caregivers all have a part to play in creating a safe sleep environment for every baby. Together, we can end these tragic deaths."

Naturepedic's Commitment to Safety

Naturepedic's dedication to infant sleep safety aligns perfectly with First Candle's educational goals. In addition to producing high-quality, certified organic crib mattresses, the partnership will enhance consumer awareness by including QR codes and infographics on every Naturepedic crib mattress. These resources will provide parents and caregivers with essential safe sleep information and guidance, empowering them to create safer sleeping environments for their babies.

Furthermore, by December 1, every employee in Naturepedic's retail locations will undergo First Candle's infant sleep training program, which is backed by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). This initiative ensures that staff members are well-equipped to share accurate and life-saving information with customers.

Arin Schultz, Chief Growth Officer at Naturepedic, expressed his personal connection to this cause, stating, "As a father of four, partnering with First Candle is deeply personal to me. I share in First Candle's goal of giving parents and caretakers peace of mind knowing their babies are sleeping safely."

The partnership will also engage in fundraising events and community outreach initiatives throughout the year, continuing to raise awareness about the importance of safe sleep practices.

New Training Program Unveiled

In addition to the initiatives mentioned, a groundbreaking training program named Safe Sleep Response Training™ will be launched by First Candle beginning October 6. This online program is designed for frontline professionals, including EMTs, firefighters, and social service workers. It equips them with the skills to engage in compassionate and culturally sensitive conversations about safe sleep practices with families, as well as offering guidance on supporting families mourning the loss of an infant.

For further resources on safe sleep practices, caregivers are encouraged to visit First Candle's website and explore Naturepedic's offerings at Naturepedic's website.

Conclusion

As Naturepedic and First Candle join forces, they bring renewed hope and resources to families, aiming to significantly reduce the rates of SUID and support those who have been affected by such losses. With a focus on education and community involvement, this partnership strives to ensure that every infant has the opportunity to celebrate their first birthday safely.

This partnership not only emphasizes the need for safety in baby sleep practices but also highlights the critical role of collaboration between non-profits and businesses in promoting community health and wellbeing.