(Michigan, June) — Michigan joined together by the thousands to raise more than $3.3 million across the state for March for Babies, formerly known as WalkAmerica, to benefit all babies—those born healthy as well as those who need help to survive and thrive.

“I am proud that Michigan residents joined together to support the health of all babies,” said Tom Riopelle, March of Dimes State Director. “The efforts made and money raised by our volunteers this year will help the March of Dimes achieve its goal of ensuring that every baby has a healthy start in life that much sooner.”

Premature birth touches half a million babies and their families every year including 15,954 preterm births in Michigan (2004 PeriStats). Babies born too soon are more likely to die or have disabilities.   More than 120,000 babies are born with serious birth defects that can mean a lifetime of disability. Babies born healthy need champions, too, to ensure they have access to newborn screening and preventive health care. The March of Dimes is there for all babies.

In Michigan, March for Babies was an exciting event.  One of the highlights was at the Metro Detroit location at Hart Plaza mascots from the Detroit Lions and Detroit Tigers joined walkers. Across the state other highlights included face painting, food and entertainment for the walkers and families. 

Funds raised by March for Babies in Michigan support community grant programs, NICU programs, NICU Family Support, community projects for high risk women and educational awareness campaigns.

In 2008, national March for Babies sponsors are CIGNA, Continental Airlines, Famous Footwear, Farmers, FedEx, Grain Foods Foundation, Liberty Tax Services, nesting.com, and Kmart, the March of Dimes number one corporate partner which has raised more than $63 million for babies.  Additional national sponsorship is provided by Discovery Health, Mead Johnson Nutritionals, Outdoor Services and Ther-Rx.

“Statewide we are proud also to be sponsored by Flagstar Bank, Bank of America, AT&T Yellow Pages and Coca Cola Enterprises,” Riopelle said.

Weather in Michigan is impossible to count on – but we’re counting on everyone.  After all of the hard work from our walkers and volunteers, the weather may have prevented some people across the state from taking part in March for Babies.  They can still turn in any money collected at their nearest March of Dimes office.  To find a March of Dimes office or for more information on how to help to save babies, log onto marchofdimes.com/Michigan.

About March of Dimes
The March of Dimes is the leading nonprofit organization for pregnancy and baby health.  With chapters nationwide and its premier event, March for Babies, the March of Dimes works to improve the health of babies. For the latest resources and information, visit marchofdimes.com or nacersano.org.

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