WELCOME
SWMPQIC | Region 8 is uniting across seven counties to identify inequities, and craft specific approaches to reducing infant mortality.

ABOUT US
Our Collaborative represents Region 8 of Michigan's 10 prosperity regions.
Region 8 Counties:
Berrien
Branch
Calhoun
Cass
Kalamazoo
St. Joseph
Van Buren
We operate with the support and guidance of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and consultants from Michigan Public Health Institute.


SAFE INFANT SLEEP
The Safe to Sleep® campaign, formerly known as the Back to Sleep campaign, focuses on actions you and others can take to help your baby sleep safely and to reduce your baby's risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and other sleep-related causes of infant death.
The term "SIDS" may sound scary, and the death of a baby is always heartbreaking. But there are a number of ways you can lower his or her risk while giving your baby the best care possible.
Learning about SIDS and safe sleep for babies is important for all caregivers, not just for parents. Grandparents, aunts, uncles, babysitters, childcare providers, and anyone else who might care for babies should learn more. Simple actions can make a big difference.
STATE UPDATES & INFORMATION
The latest updates on Maternal and Infant health from Michigan Department of Health and Human Services
THE ABEST PROJECT
(ABEST) Achieving Birth Equity through Systems Transformation
The goal of this work is to address the root causes of racial inequities in maternal and infant mortality by developing systems change strategies that shift relationships, power, mental models, and narratives that will drive sustained change.
MARIJUANA AND PREGNANCY
Learn more about the effects of marijuana use during pregnancy by viewing the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) FAQ on the topic. An infographic on marijuana and pregnancy is also available. You can find additional information regarding marijuana use during pregnancy on the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) Know the Risks of Marijuana site.
For more resources from the ACOG, visit www.acog.org and from SAMHSA at www.samhsa.gov.
BREASTFEEDING AND SAFE SLEEP BULLETIN BOARD KITS
Last summer, in recognition of National Breastfeeding Month in August and Infant Safe Sleep Awareness Month in September, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services distributed bulletin board kits to increase client education and awareness on safe sleep and the protective factor of breastfeeding. The bulletin board is titled Breastfeeding and Safe Sleep: Both Work Together to Keep Your Baby Safe and Healthy!
We may have an additional, limited supply of printed copies of the bulletin board kits available. If you would be interested in receiving a printed copy of the kit, please email the Infant Safe Sleep Program at MDHHS-InfantSafeSleep@michigan.gov. Electronic copies of the kits are also available online in English, Arabic and Spanish.
SAFE INFANT SLEEP
Follow these tips for safe sleep during every nap and night-time routine:
Place your baby on their back, in a crib, bassinet or pack-n-play for every sleep time.
Use a firm mattress with a tightly fitted sheet.
Keep baby’s sleep space clutter free – no pillows, blankets or toys.
Avoid covering baby’s head or overheating. Instead of a blanket, consider using a sleep sack, wearable blanket or footed sleeper to keep baby warm.
Remind everyone who cares for your baby, including babysitters and family members, how to keep baby safe while sleeping.
INFORMATION & RESOURCES
What's happening in your community?
MICHIGAN BREASTFEEDING NETWORK QUARTERLY MEETING
December 3, 2019 9a-4p
Quarterly Network Meetings are intended to create a platform to learn, share, and connect among local and regional breastfeeding supporters and are designed through the lens of MIBFN’s mission, priorities, and goals.
Click below to learn more about the Michigan Breastfeeding Network

Are you interested in joining the collaborative? To be added to our contact distribution list, please submit an inquiry including your reason for interest.
Thank you!
