North Charlotte Today

Volunteers in Mecklenburg County are preparing Baby Bundles as part of a new public health initiative aimed at supporting high-risk pregnant women. This program, a collaboration between Mecklenburg County Public Health and Baby Bundles, seeks to offer baby supplies and health education to families in need.

Dr. Bonnie Coyle, the Medical Director of Mecklenburg County Public Health, expressed enthusiasm about the initiative. She stated, “We’re excited for this new initiative that will help new families welcome their baby with essential supplies and resources.” She also acknowledged Baby Bundles as a valuable community partner and highlighted the inclusion of vaccine information and health resources in the bundles.

The initiative features bundles valued at $350, filled with baby clothing, essentials, diapers, and wipes, alongside vital health information. This includes details on vaccines during pregnancy and childhood, mental health resources, and guidance on infant safe sleep practices (alone, back, crib).

Supported by a grant from the National Association of County and City Health Officials, the initiative will initially distribute over 200 bundles through Public Health this summer. The aim is to increase this distribution by the end of the year. Mecklenburg County is one of 14 counties nationwide awarded this grant, which focuses on boosting pediatric vaccine coverage. Additionally, it fosters partnerships with local early childcare centers to educate families about accessing free or low-cost vaccines via the Immunization Clinic.

Baby Bundles aims to distribute 3,500 bundles in 2025, collaborating with 18 community partners across Mecklenburg County and hurricane-affected regions in western North Carolina. Other partners include Diaper Bank NC, Crisis Assistance Ministry, Project Linus, and Promising Pages.

To learn more about the grant or program, individuals are encouraged to contact Dr. Lis Pordes, Program Manager of the Prenatal - Three Initiative, at lis.p[email protected], or Joy Smith, Communicable Disease Director, at [email protected].