SKILLMAN, N.J., Nov. 3 /PRNewswire/ -- JOHNSON'S(R) has announced its participation in the launch of "Prematurity Awareness Month" that partners with the March of Dimes to help build awareness of the growing problem of premature birth and raise funds to support the initiatives of the nonprofit organization. JOHNSON'S(R) will carry out a nationwide campaign that donates ten cents to the March of Dimes for every JOHNSON'S(R) Baby product purchased during the months of November and December, up to $100,000. This program comes as part of JOHNSON'S(R) long-standing commitment to provide mothers and babies with the medical care they need to live long, healthy lives.
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"Today, 1 in 8 babies is born prematurely, which increases the risk for lifelong medical complications and death," said Caitlin Pappas, U.S. General Manager of JOHNSON'S(R) Baby Care. "It is crucial for us to prevent these tragedies from happening in the first place, which is why we are committed to supporting the March of Dimes in helping to decrease the number of premature births and empower mothers across the nation."
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"We are thrilled to partner with JOHNSON'S(R), a brand that has a continued record of working to improve the quality of life for mothers and babies around the world," said Dr. Jennifer L. Howse, President of the March of Dimes. "It is our hope that 'Prematurity Awareness Month' brings public attention to the serious problem of premature birth and inspires others to do all they can to make sure the babies within their families and communities are born full term."
Beyond the product proceeds throughout November and December 2008, JOHNSON'S(R) will launch a multi-faceted communications campaign that includes direct mail brochures, displays within retailers and Web outreach to over 700,000 moms nationwide. The goal of this campaign is to not only continue in JOHNSON'S(R) philanthropic partnerships, but also to raise funds and elevate consumer engagement that will support the fight against prematurity and increase awareness of the March of Dimes and its mission.
With over 500,000 babies born premature in the U.S. every year, babies born before their completed 37 weeks gestation term account for a growing proportion of infant deaths, according to the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS). Additionally, these babies that are born too small and too soon often face the challenges associated with lasting disabilities such as cerebral palsy, mental retardation and learning problems, chronic lung disease, and vision and hearing problems, making half of all neurological disabilities in children related to premature birth. Helping mothers and their babies reach term can help reduce the nation's infant mortality rate while providing each baby with a better chance for a healthy start in life.
About the March of Dimes
The March of Dimes is the leading organization for pregnancy and baby health. With chapters nationwide and its premier event, March for Babies(R), the March of Dimes works to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth, and infant mortality. For the latest information, visit marchofdimes.com or nacersano.org.
About JOHNSON'S(R)
JOHNSON'S(R), a brand of the Johnson & Johnson Consumer Products Company, division of Johnson & Johnson Consumer Companies, Inc., has a long tradition of providing pure, mild, gentle and clinically-proven baby products formulated especially for babies. The most trusted name in baby care, JOHNSON'S(R) is rooted in science and has a 115-year leadership in the industry; every product undergoes rigorous clinical testing to ensure it meets the highest standards. JOHNSON'S(R) takes pride in continuing to create and supply parents and healthcare professionals with the best essentials and innovations in baby care. For more information about the JOHNSON'S(R) brand and its product offerings, visit www.johnsonsbaby.com.
Press Contact: Lori Dolginoff JOHNSON'S(R) (646) 662-6513 [email protected]
SOURCE JOHNSON?S(R)
