Thursday, August 9, 2007

Grant Funds Earmarked To Aid Reduction In Infant Mortality Rate

   Governor Phil Bredesen announced Tuesday that grant funds have been awarded to Tennessee’s United Way program in an effort to help reduce the state’s infant mortality rate.

   The grant, totaling $515,000, will be used to increase the use of Volunteers In Service To America (VISTA) organization in communities with high infant death rates, to reduce the number of babies who die from health-related causes before their first birthday.

   VISTA members help educate and assist women in receiving appropriate health care to improve birth outcomes and reduce preventable premature infant death.

   Tennessee currently ranks 43rd among all states in infant mortality.

.