Cribs for Kids
Program Contacts
Michele Benko MS, RD, LD
Supervisor
216.201.2000 ext 1528
mbenko@ccbh.net
Angela Henderson REHS
Program Manager
216.201.2000 ext 1206
ahenderson@ccbh.net
The Cribs for Kids program is designed to reduce sleep-related deaths.
Our staff provides safe-sleep education and works with local partners to help familie]s that may be at risk.
THE ISSUE
On average, 20 infants die each year from a sleep-related death.
In our county, there is a consistent disparity between outcomes for black and white infants.
75% of the infants (15 of 20 total) who died from sleep-related deaths in 2022 were Black, non-Hispanic.
According to the 2022 Cuyahoga County Child Fatality Report (CFR):
199 sleep-related deaths have occurred in county since 2013
126 were due to the infant sharing its sleeping area with an adult, child or pet (surface-sharing)
157 of the victims were Black, non-Hispanic
These deaths are preventable when families are given resources and support to follow safe-sleep guidelines.
WHAT IS BEING DONE
The Cribs for Kids/Safe-Sleep Program offers resources to parents, allowing them to create a safe-sleep environment.
This includes direct education and access to appropriate safe-sleep tools, such as cribs or Pack n’ Play kits.
HOW TO RECEIVE HELP
Families that meet these guidelines are eligible for assistance:
- Mother is at least 32 weeks pregnant
- An infant lives in the home, is less than one year-old, and does not have a safe-sleep space
- Household income is less than 200% of the Federal Poverty Level
Caregivers, including non-custodial grandparents, are eligible. Families with twins and multiple births are also eligible.
Contact us by phone
Please call our office at 216.201.2001
Dial extension 2019
Email
Kristyn Hajduk – khajduk@ccbh.net
Angela Henderson – ahenderson@ccbh.net
