Since 2009, 135 babies have died in six Bootheel counties in Missouri. That’s 135 children who never got to celebrate their first birthday or attend their first day of kindergarten. Hundreds of families will forever have a hole in their lives, and entire communities are affected by the impact of infant mortality – including YOU.

Even if you do not have children or your children are grown, a high infant mortality rate affects the entire community. Here are three reasons you should care:

  • Community health: Infants’ health reflects the overall health of a community. A high infant mortality rate is often a sign of inadequate access to healthcare or poor health throughout a community.
  • Employers: A high infant mortality rate and premature births result in 10 times higher healthcare costs for employers compared to uncomplicated births. Further, businesses will potentially have a decreased workforce in the future due to infant mortality.
  • Taxpayers: The economic impact of infant mortality directly affects your wallet. More than $600 billion in taxes have been spent for services related to infant mortality.

You can make a difference for infants in your community by helping us spread the word about infant mortality and safe sleep habits. Learn more about how you can help: https://new.bootheelbabies.org/contact-us/

Disclaimer: If your baby has a fever or other symptoms, or you have concerns about the growth and development of your child, always seek care with your healthcare provider.