GIVING IS A FAMILY TRADITION
This organization has already been registered
Someone in your organization has already registered and setup an account. would you like to join their team?Profile owner : G**T@g**********************n.o*g
Mission Statement
GiFT's mission is to empower NICU families. We foster resilience, hope, and healing during and after the NICU journey through education, providing critical infant care supplies, and cultivating community. Our Vision is to improve family health outcomes and reduce infant mortality in the greater St. Louis area
About This Cause
Giving is a Family Tradition (GiFT) is a small St. Louis based 501(c)3 nonprofit focused on empowering families with the most vulnerable newborns, those who’ve been admitted to NICU (neonatal intensive care unit) immediately following birth. Preterm birth is the most common reason for NICU admission. In St. Louis and Missouri, our community has a preterm birth rate above the national average of 10.4%. St. Louis County and City received a grade of “F” from the March of Dimes in 2024, with rates of 11.9% and 13.5%, respectively. Additionally, Missouri's infant mortality rate of 6.8 is higher than the national rate of 5.6 (per 1K births). These statistics highlight the need for direct support services for families transitioning from the NICU to home. NICU families face increased financial burdens and stress compared to parents of healthy babies. GiFT focuses on supporting low-income populations, those facing disparities in education and infant health, infants with extended NICU stays of three months or more, and families dealing with significant challenges post-hospitalization. Program goals include: 1. Enhanced Infant Health and Safety: Families receive education and essential care items such as safe sleep environments, car seats, hygiene supplies, and specialized feeding supplies, promoting healthy growth and reducing health risks. 2. Reduced Financial Burden: Provides families the opportunity to allocate resources to other needs. 3. Smoother Transition Home: Reduces logistical and emotional stress, making families feel more prepared and confident. 4. Increased Family Well-Being: Reduced stressors improve caregivers' mental health and foster a positive home environment. 5. Stronger Community Connections: Through partnerships with healthcare providers and community organizations, DH builds a support network for NICU families and strengthens the community’s response to their needs. Our Destination Home program is offered to and serves families from five St. Louis area hospitals. The DH program addresses financial burden, emotional and logical stress by providing a customized, year-long service that includes education and care packages tailored to each family’s self-identified needs. GiFT NICU referral partners: BJC Health St. Louis Children’s Hospital NICU BJC Health Missouri Baptist Medical Center NICU SSM Health Cardinal Glennon NICU SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital NICU Ranken Jordan Pediatric Bridge Hospital