Rep. Somani Announces $1.2M for Department of Children & Youth for Cribs for Kids, Combat Infant Mortality

COLUMBUS - State Rep. Anita Somani (D-Dublin) today announced that the Controlling Board has approved $1.2M under the Department of Children & Youth with the aim of combating infant mortality. The funds will be used in partnership with the non-profit organization Cribs for Kids which will provide eligible parents education on the importance of and how to practice safe sleep with their infant. Cribs for Kids will also furnish parents a product to allow them to put their baby to sleep safely and to assist with practicing safe sleep. 

“Ohio has one of the highest infant mortality rates in the country. As an OB/GYN, I am acutely aware of the importance of practicing evidence-based safe sleep methods. This is a practical step forward to lower infant mortality in Ohio,” said Rep. Somani.

The contract also supports the distribution of Cribs for Kids Survival Kits to eligible at-risk families in 71 counties. The Survival Kits include tools necessary for preventing infant mortality such as, portable cribs, fitted crib sheets, and educational materials.  

Additionally, the Controlling Board approved $20M for the Ohio Department of Natural Resources to contract with various firms to provide architectural, engineering, and surveying services.

Some other items approved by the Controlling Board include:

• $91M for planned renovations to the Ohio Expo Center & State Fairgrounds, including new buildings and underground infrastructure work.
• $792K for Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities to provide medical assessment services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
• $443K for Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities to provide online professional development training for direct support professionals (DSPs).