Sinai Hospital of Baltimore has received a $30,000 donation from the Will & Jada Smith Family Foundation to be used for the New Bridges to Improved Child Health Program at Sinai. The program, which has been in operation since 1993, was developed to help reduce infant mortality by providing home visits to women who might not normally seek medical care during pregnancy.
This donation will make it possible to staff the home visitor position within the program,� said Pamela Young, director, Community Initiatives, LifeBridge Health. This position plays a critical role because it enables Sinai Hospital staff to reach women in their homes and act as mentors by providing the tools needed to promote a healthy home environment.�
Because the program is hospital-based, the women are often referred to New Bridges by hospital staff from many different areas within the hospital. However, New Bridges also receives referrals from the community. Once a woman has been identified, the home visitor works out an assessment plan with the family; and home visits are scheduled, usually on a weekly basis. The home visitor stays involved with the family for as long as necessary to meet the participant�s goals.
The Will & Jada Smith Foundation is a consistent supporter of the New Bridges program, donating thousands of dollars to help maintain its function within the community.
