Each year, Salem Health invites Marion and Polk county organizations to apply for its Community Partnership Grant program. We look for organizations that share or enhance our mission to improve the health and well-being of the people in our community. 

The Infant Safe Sleep Coalition applied for a grant to address two priority areas: early childhood health and substance abuse/addiction. The funds will help hire a coordinator for education programs and purchase a supply of sleep boxes and Pack ‘N Plays for families who cannot afford a crib.

Salem Health and the coalition feel strongly that parent education is critical for early childhood health. The infant safe sleep message includes putting babies on their back for sleep, never bed-sharing, and having babies sleep in an empty crib with no blankets, bumpers or stuffed animals. By following infant safe sleep practices, parents reduce the risk of losing a child to sudden infant death syndrome.