Did you know Kentucky has one of the highest preterm birth rates in the country at 11.7%? In the United States, about 1 in 10 babies is born prematurely each year, and preterm birth remains a leading cause of infant death.
March of Dimes is a leading nonprofit focused on improving the health of moms and babies through research, education, and advocacy. It is one of the most dangerous developed nations for childbirth. March of Dimes is working to change that by funding research, expanding access to quality prenatal care, and advocating for policies that support healthier pregnancies and stronger starts for babies.
In Kentucky, the need for change is high; about 1 in 9 babies are born too soon, and hundreds of families each year experience the challenges and uncertainty that come with prematurity. The infant mortality rate in the United States is 5.6%, and 6.6% in Kentucky. Over 20,000 babies died before their first birthday; the highest rates occurred in the South and Midwest regions. While many women receive prenatal care, gaps in access and resources continue to impact outcomes, especially in rural and underserved communities. March of Dimes is working to close these gaps by using data to guide programs, support healthcare providers, and reach families who need it most.
This mission is personal for our team. Within our administrative staff, two members have recently experienced preterm births and long NICU stays. In 2024, Emmy was welcomed to the world 15 weeks early, weighing only 1 pound, following complications from her mom's fight with preeclampsia. In 2025, Georgia was welcomed 8 weeks early when mom went in for a routine prenatal visit, which ended in an emergency C-section, weighing just 1lb 10oz. These journeys reflect the reality behind the statistics—the uncertainty, the resilience, and the critical importance of specialized care and support.
Your support can help make a change. Every donation funds lifesaving research, improves care for moms and babies, and provides resources to families navigating the NICU and beyond. Together, we can reduce premature births, support families in their most difficult moments, and give more babies a healthy start.
March of Dimes is dedicated to bringing people together to tackle America's maternal and infant health crisis—one person, one community, and one step at a time. More than a series of walks, March for Babies is an annual tradition that supports moms and babies every day, every step of the way.
March for Babies connects friends, families, and coworkers to improve the health of families nationwide. Together with March of Dimes, each step forward brings us closer to a healthy future for all.
Thank you for your support!
