NCMC Foundation Adopt-A-Mom Initiative for First Steps

GREELEY, Colo. (April 6, 2011) - The North Colorado Medical Center Foundation is seeking donations from area businesses and residents for its Adopt-A-Mom Initiative for the First Steps Program. Contributions will provide prenatal, postpartum and parenting services that are client centered and consist of referral, education, case management, advocacy and support. 

Since 1991, the dedicated staff at First Steps has promoted healthy pregnancies and birth outcomes by using a network of established relationships.  In 2010, First Steps received over 600 referrals, served over 300 women and provided community education to over 800 Weld County students. First Steps serves any pregnant woman, regardless of age or income. This effort is made possible by the generous support of our community.

Today, one in eight American births is preterm – Colorado’s 9-percent preterm birth rate is one of the highest low-birth weight rates in the nation (a baby weighing 5 pounds 8 ounces or less).  In 2009, Weld County’s low-birth weight rate was 7.5 percent, while low-birth weight babies born to clients of First Steps were only 5 percent!  Low-birth weight babies are not just small babies. They are at an increased risk for severe illness and death and are more likely to have long-term health problems and learning disabilities. 

Through the Adopt-A-Mom Initiative, donors have the option of making a contribution at several levels:

• Adopt-A-Mom for three trimesters, $1,420. Donor will receive two letters on the mom’s progress and a thank-you in the newspaper on Mother’s Day.
• Adopt-A-Mom for two trimesters, $750. Donor will receive one letter on the mom’s progress and a thank-you in the newspaper on Mother’s Day.
• Adopt-A-Mom for one trimester, $350. Donor will receive a thank-you in the newspaper on Mother’s Day.

Gifts of any level will be accepted.  To send a donation, please make checks payable to “NCMC Foundation” and mail to NCMC Foundation 1801 16th Street Greeley, CO 80631 or call (970) 356-9020 for more information.

Since 1975, the North Colorado Medical Center Foundation has served as NCMC’s philanthropic partner in supporting healthcare at the Medical Center and in the community.  During that time, the Foundation has been entrusted as stewards of nearly $40 million in charitable gifts.