You may have read the article published by BBC back in 2013. But just in case you didn’t, don’t be alarmed by this organization. We promise that Babies Need Boxes has the best interest of every newborn baby in mind. Because these boxes actually mean blessings! It’s a tradition designed to give all children an equal start in life, regardless of their socio-economic background. The concept was first made available to Finland’s low income mothers back in the 1930’s, to help combat the nation’s rising infant mortality rate. It quickly rose in popularity and over the years, the boxes have been used in conjunction with comprehensive education and healthcare programs. The combination of these initiatives have led many to believe it’s the key to achieving one of the world’s lowest infant mortality rates. With a mattress securely tucked in the bottom, a newborn baby can rest peacefully within the safety of the box’s four cardboard walls. It’s so simple but so significant. After reading that [now] well-known article, Danielle Selassie of Fridley, Minnesota, founded Babies Need Boxes. The concept of a universal program to provide a safe and supported start in life for every child, no matter their background, deeply resonated with her. So Danielle created this non-profit organization and has since built a passionate team of community advocates to help make a difference in the lives of families and their newborn babies.

We can all likely agree that every little baby should have the opportunity to thrive and grow in a safe environment. That includes a safe place to sleep and the basic essentials to promote development and self-sufficiency. And worry not, these boxes come from The Baby Box Co., the only internationally certified provider of safe sleeping boxes. Their commitment to safety is absolute. Each box goes through rigorous inspection, they must meet each country’s governmental health standards and they’re made of materials that are non-toxic and environmentally safe. Right down to the glue and adhesive used in production. A baby’s welcome into the world shouldn’t be complicated and it doesn’t have to be fancy. The entire idea that a cardboard box might be the reason for survival sure seems a little unbelievable but as it turns out, it’s definitely dependable. And that’s why new Chapters are sprouting all over the globe as the powerful mission continues to inspire and evolve.

Babies Need Boxes facilitates the distribution of the Baby Boxes. These gender-neutral boxes provide a safe sleep space for infants up to six months of age and come with a firm mattress, a waterproof cover, fitted sheet and a zippered bag filled with a variety of essential childcare products. Consider it the ultimate care package that helps equip a family transitioning into parenthood. Because as many of us know, it might very well be the hardest job on this planet. So any organization that is driven to give aid to families, increase the infant survival rate and help individuals be more successful parents is a big win in our book!

 

When you think of baby, you often think of pink or blue! So it’s only fitting that this month’s UrbanHalo for a heroic cause is delightfully adorned with the perfect pastels of pink, a littlebaby blue and a splash of the necessary neutrals (for all those who love the spirit of surprise). It has an element of spring and a source of sweetness. It’s gracefully detailed, delicately designed and completely worthy of wearing for all the right reasons.

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