FAST FACTS:
Victory Ministry and the Airways Lamar Business Association are putting up wreaths all along the Lamar corridor. They bear the name of sponsors who hope to send a message about babies in Memphis.
"As people ride down our corridor down Highway 78, which we know it as Lamar Avenue, all the way through downtown. They will be more aware of the infant mortality issue that our city faces," said Denice Mann, organizer.
In all 200 wreaths will line the street. Organizers vow to make this an annual project until they see a measurable reduction in infant mortality. The Shelby County organization All Babies Count says community involvement can make a big difference.
"It's important that we're letting the community become aware of ways they can get plugged in and have the correct information to pass on and support moms who are expecting," said Nika Jackson, All Babies Count.
That's why the Fresh Starts Community Baby Shower was started. In the Raleigh Frayser neighborhood they showered new and expectant mothers with items they'll need and information essential to maintaining a healthy pregnancy and being a good parent. Memphis Mayor A C Wharton is supporting the effort.
Memphis has a long way to go in reversing the trend. Of the 60 largest cities, it ranks number one in infant mortality. For every one thousand babies born here at least 12 die before their first birthday.
The number of infants who die from violence also adds to the city's high infant mortality rate.
- Weekend events spotlight problem of infant mortality
- Memphis ranks highest among large cities
- Organizations pledging support to new mothers and awareness
Victory Ministry and the Airways Lamar Business Association are putting up wreaths all along the Lamar corridor. They bear the name of sponsors who hope to send a message about babies in Memphis.
"As people ride down our corridor down Highway 78, which we know it as Lamar Avenue, all the way through downtown. They will be more aware of the infant mortality issue that our city faces," said Denice Mann, organizer.
In all 200 wreaths will line the street. Organizers vow to make this an annual project until they see a measurable reduction in infant mortality. The Shelby County organization All Babies Count says community involvement can make a big difference.
"It's important that we're letting the community become aware of ways they can get plugged in and have the correct information to pass on and support moms who are expecting," said Nika Jackson, All Babies Count.
That's why the Fresh Starts Community Baby Shower was started. In the Raleigh Frayser neighborhood they showered new and expectant mothers with items they'll need and information essential to maintaining a healthy pregnancy and being a good parent. Memphis Mayor A C Wharton is supporting the effort.
Memphis has a long way to go in reversing the trend. Of the 60 largest cities, it ranks number one in infant mortality. For every one thousand babies born here at least 12 die before their first birthday.
The number of infants who die from violence also adds to the city's high infant mortality rate.
