Cardboard boxes could help solve one of Tarrant County's most crucial problems.
Tarrant County has had the highest infant mortality rate in the state, but now a family-oriented nonprofit is giving away cardboard boxes as a safe place for babies to sleep.
Child Care Associates, which works in five main areas to ensure that disadvantaged children and families have the support they need for success, has partnered with The Baby Box Co. to offer Baby Boxes to residents.
Airykka Lasley, CCA Early Headstart Health and Nutrition Specialist, says the boxes will go to families in the program but are available to any family, free of charge, who complete an online parenting course.
"It's kind of just a reminder that the infant shouldn't co-sleep, or sleep with a parent," Lasley said.
CCA received its first shipment of 60 Baby Boxes last week.
Statistics show that for every 1,000 babies born in Tarrant County, about 12 will not survive infancy.
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The high infant mortality rate is said to be tied to the county's high rates of teen pregnancy and premature births.
"We have to find something that we can help save these infants," said Molly Win, Early Headstart coordinator.
MORE: Contact Child Care Associates for more details.
