#United States #Pittsburgh #Safe Sleep #Cribs for Kids #JPMA Cares

Launch of the Safe Sleep Building Blocks Grant Program

In a crucial initiative aimed at enhancing infant safety, Cribs for Kids has joined forces with JPMA Cares and Safe Kids Worldwide to unveil the Safe Sleep Building Blocks Grant Program. This nationwide program is crafted to dismantle the barriers that hinder access to safe sleep education and resources. According to the data, approximately 3,700 infant sleep-related deaths occur in the United States annually, disproportionately affecting underserved communities. This alarming statistic underscores the necessity of the program.

The Need for Safe Sleep Education

JPMA Cares Executive Director, Lisa Trofe, stated, "Each year, the heartbreaking reality is that many parents and caregivers lack essential information about safe sleep practices. It is our duty to provide families with the knowledge and tools necessary to keep their children safe." The partnership aims to bridge the gap in access to safe sleep resources among low-income families and communities that face greater challenges.

The program will be funded by a generous grant from JPMA Cares, which is committed to empowering organizations that play a pivotal role in promoting infant safety through education, outreach, and the provision of safe sleep products.

Details of the Grant Program

The Safe Sleep Building Blocks Grant Program will specifically focus on supporting Safe Kids Worldwide Coalition Members and affiliated organizations. This collaboration aims to fortify the efforts of organizations already invested in safe sleep initiatives but struggling with resources or outreach capabilities. By leveraging each organizations’ strengths—JPMA Cares' Safe Sleep Campaign, Cribs for Kids' logistical expertise, and Safe Kids' community connections—this initiative hopes to enhance its impact in vulnerable communities.

Resources Being Provided

Twenty selected recipients will receive essential materials designed to facilitate safe sleep practices for families. Each awarded organization will receive:

• - 20 Safe Sleep Survival Kits, which include items such as:

- A Cribette play yard and sheet
- A Snoozzzette wearable blanket
- A Sleep Baby Safe Snug board book
- A pacifier
- Educational materials to promote safe sleep practices.

• - Community Outreach Support, including:

- A comprehensive Cribs for Kids Education Package containing brochures, flyers, and posters
- Marketing materials for promoting the Safe Sleep Building Blocks program.

Application Process and Timeline

Organizations interested in this grant opportunity can submit their applications from March 1 through April 30, 2025. The application process is accessible online, enabling numerous organizations seeking to enhance their outreach in safe sleep education.

Commitment to Safe Sleep

Judy Bannon, CEO of Cribs for Kids, expressed excitement about this collaboration, stating, "We are thrilled to work alongside JPMA Cares and Safe Kids Worldwide to ensure that more families receive vital education and resources. Our joint efforts will eliminate barriers and build a future where every family has access to the support needed for safe sleep."

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Safe Sleep Building Blocks Grant Program marks a significant step forward in the collective mission to ensure all infants sleep safely. By equipping nonprofits and community organizations with vital resources, this initiative brings hope for a future where tragic sleep-related injuries are significantly reduced, and all families have access to lifesaving education and safe sleep environments.

For more information on the Safe Sleep Building Blocks Grant Program, please visit Cribs for Kids.