HHS launches program to provide newborn essentials to mothers, families
Caroline MolloyThe U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) on Oct. 9 launched the next phase of a federal initiative to support mothers and newborns by distributing kits of essential supplies to families around the time of birth.
The Newborn Essentials Support Toolkit (NEST) will provide families with supplies including diapers and wipes, an infant thermometer, postpartum recovery and breastfeeding supplies, and a blood pressure monitor, according to an Oct. 9 HHS press release.
The program launched at West Virginia University Medicine Golisano Children’s Hospital in Morgantown, West Virginia. NEST kits will be distributed through hospitals, federally qualified health centers, and other organizations providing maternity care, the release noted.
HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. highlighted the initiative as part of the Trump administration’s efforts to support families.
“President Trump is putting mothers, babies, and strong families at the center of his health agenda,” he said. “Through NEST, HHS is delivering essential supplies and trusted health information directly to families around the time of birth, including in rural and underserved communities.”
