Cradling the future generation of Hoosiers

Indiana’s infant mortality rate is the 11th highest in the nation.

This means that a child born in Indiana has a greater chance of dying before their first birthday than babies born in other parts of the country. Even more startling is that African American babies die at twice the state’s overall rate.

Donors who want to be part of the solution in reducing these statistics can give to the Racial Equity in Healthcare Fund in support of Cradle Indianapolis—a philanthropy-funded initiative that is based on a proven model that reduced infant mortality rates in Cincinnati.

Given the urgency in addressing infant and maternal health, an anonymous family of donors has generously agreed to match $120,000 in contributions made in support of the program.

“The infant mortality rate in our state is unacceptable,” the family said. “Cradle Indianapolis will help make our community a place where everyone can thrive.”

Cradle Indianapolis is a collaborative effort among parents, caregivers, healthcare professionals and community members, that addresses preconception health, pregnancy health and infant health. It also confronts issues such as smoking during pregnancy, sleep-related deaths and pre-term births.

Philanthropic support will enable IU Health Foundation to launch in Marion County and then expand statewide.

Until the donor match is exhausted, all gifts will be matched dollar-for-dollar to spare another family the heartbreak of losing a baby—and create a model that will give all of Indiana’s mothers and babies a healthier future.

If you’d like to learn more about Cradle Indianapolis, contact Jami Marsh, IU Health Foundation, vice president, Philanthropy & Strategy at 317.962.1786.