The UnityPoint Health – Visiting Nurse Association (VNA) is the recipient of a Fall 2026 Grant from Variety – the Children’s Charity.

The VNA was awarded $5,000 in funding to purchase portable cribs (Pack N Plays) and educational materials to promote safe sleep practices for infants. In addition, Variety – the Children’s Charity will provide an in-kind donation of sleep sacks.

These items will provide families with safe, secure environments for infants to sleep and play through the Maternal Health Program, with the goal to reduce infant sleep-related risks while also supporting maternal well-being.

Many families served by VNA face significant socioeconomic challenges that make it difficult for families to follow safe sleep guidelines without additional support.

“We are grateful to Variety – the Children’s Charity for this support,” said Jesse Underwood, Executive Director of the Finley Health Foundation. “These resources will help us provide families with both the education and essential items they need to create safe sleep environments for their babies.”

By addressing both education and access to essential resources, this grant funding will help reduce the risk of SIDS and other sleep-related deaths, reduce stress and anxiety, and support improved mental health and well-being for families.