HHS launches program providing essential newborn, postpartum supply kits

The Department of Health and Human Services Oct. 9 announced the launch of its Newborn Essentials Support Toolkit Program, which, through partnership with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's CDC Foundation, provides families with a one-time kit of essential newborn postpartum supplies, maternal health items, and information and resources. HHS said it is emphasizing geographic diversity, reaching areas of need that include maternal care deserts, rural communities and other underserved areas as the program expands. The NEST kits contain supplies such as diapers and wipes, an infant thermometer and other essential newborn items, as well as postpartum recovery and breastfeeding supplies and a blood pressure monitor. The kits also have information on postpartum health, infant safety and care, feeding and nutrition, and programs and resources. The kits will be distributed through participating hospitals, federally qualified health centers and other organizations providing maternity care to mothers late in pregnancy or around the time of birth.