The Medical Center will reach more expectant parents with vital obstetrics education classes thanks to a grant from Kohl’s Cares®. Kohl’s has awarded Commonwealth Health Foundation a $26,005 grant to be used for The Medical Center’s Newborn Care and Safety Class which teaches expectant parents essential baby care skills.
“The Newborn Care and Safety Class is one of the most important classes that expectant parents can take as they prepare for the birth of their child,” said Amber Herman, OB Clinical Manager for The Medical Center. “The class allows expectant parents to feel more confident and comfortable caring for their newborn.”
The Newborn Care and Safety Class is a free, hands-on class where participants use baby dolls to practice swaddling and holding a newborn, diapering and giving the baby a bath. A variety of safety issues are addressed, and a CPR demonstration shows parents what to do in an emergency.
The Kohl’s grant will enable The Medical Center to offer more classes throughout the year. Currently 23 Newborn Care and Safety Classes are scheduled at The Medical Center Health & Wellness Center in 2011. Other locations are currently being researched to expand the classes to other areas of the community. The Kohl’s grant also funds the purchase of safety tote bags for expectant parents who take part in the Newborn Care and Safety class. The tote bags, which include items such as a DNA identification kit, bath water temperature tester, infant CPR memo board, and baby safety gift set, are provided to parents at no cost.
The Medical Center is the local Kohl’s Cares® beneficiary. Since 2005, Kohl’s has donated more than $100,000 to The Medical Center to support its health and wellness programs including construction of two community walking trails at local elementary schools.
Kohl's commitment to Commonwealth Health Foundation and The Medical Center is made possible through the Kohl's Cares® philanthropic initiative. Kohl’s Cares® includes a merchandise program featuring $5 books and plush toys where 100% of net profits benefiting health and educational opportunities for children nationwide. Since 2000 when Kohl’s Cares® was introduced, Kohl's has raised more than $150 million dollars through its merchandise program. In addition to its hospital partnerships, Kohl's Cares includes Kohl’s Cares® scholarship program, Kohl's Associates in Action program, and fundraising cards for local schools and nonprofit youth organizations.
