Sunday, June 25th, at Montour Preserve, will be the 1st March for Babies in four years. What better way to celebrate than to join the fight to save Moms and Babies right here in the Susquehanna Valley? This is a time for families to come together to support one another throughout our parenthood journeys while raising critical funds to help March of Dimes provide research, programs, education, and advocacy so moms and babies get the best possible start. March for Babies is the organization’s largest fundraiser and the nation’s oldest charitable walk.

The March of Dimes 2022 Report Card shows that the U.S preterm birth rate increased to 10.5% in 2021 — a significant 4% increase in just one year and the highest recorded rate since 2007. The data also shows persistent racial disparities across maternal and infant health measures that were compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic, making the U.S. among the most dangerous developed nations for childbirth.

We must unite and take steps — big or small — to fundraise and make a huge difference in the health of all families. Please join or start a team and ask family and friends to join to compete with you to raise funds. Create your own DIY fundraiser. Check out the Mother’s Day signs we are selling this month — contact me, if you would like one at 570-419-9826.

All sign donations go to My March For Babies Team “Vin Strong,” http://www.MarchForBabies.org/VinStrong.

Register at MarchForBabies.com today! If you are interested in donating your service/products for the walk, please get in touch with me! We tentatively have food trucks, face painting, photo booth, and pet therapy. Registration begins at noon, and we will “march” at 1:00 p.m. Our NICU graduates will be able to participate in the Superhero Sprint and other special activities.

I wish you all a very HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY and hope to see you at the March for Babies on Sunday, June 25th, at Montour Preserve.