Trending
It was encouraging to see recently that Ohio's lawmakers are stepping forward to help children.
Ohio's Departments of Health and Children and Youth have awarded $5 million to 19 community- and faith-based organizations that support pregnant women and "newly-parenting families."
It is worth noting that none of that money is going to organizations in our region, though perhaps we will see some benefit from the nearly $350,000 going to the statewide Baby's 1st Network to "Provide safe sleep and breastfeeding information, and convene birthing professionals, community-based home visitors, early childcare providers, and representatives from community-based organizations."
In 2021, Ohio had an infant mortality rate of 6.9 per 1,000 live births. That is equivalent to Lebanon, and higher than countries such as Sri Lanka, Russia, China, Malaysia, Romania or Slovakia. It's also higher than the U.S. average of 5.1.
"Giving all Ohioans the best possible start in life truly begins before a child is even born, and that means ensuring the child's family has access to the resources and support they need," Gov. Mike DeWine said.
It is a wonderful start to helping improve life for all Ohioans. The challenge now is to ensure funding is spread throughout the state so such support is available to all.