Congresswoman Julia Letlow and Congresswoman Kim Schrier introduced legislation on Nov. 18 aimed at increasing critical support for new mothers and infants through the distribution of newborn supply kits.
The Newborns Essentials Support Toolkit Act authorizes an existing pilot program within the Department of Health and Human Services to provide items such as diapers, wipes, breastfeeding supplies, and postpartum mental health resources in areas of need. Original cosponsors include Congresswomen Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA) and Nanette Barragan (D-CA).
“Motherhood is a tremendous blessing and the highest calling of my life. In the days and moments after giving birth, I want all moms to have the support necessary to create a nurturing environment for their child, especially in maternal health deserts and our rural communities,” said Congresswoman Julia Letlow, the primary sponsor of the legislation. “We will keep working with our local hospitals and private sector partners to expand this program and provide meaningful support for mothers and their babies.”
“As a mother and a pediatrician, I understand the physical, mental, and financial challenges that mothers of newborns often face during the postpartum period,” said Congresswoman Schrier, M.D. “Mothers need all the support we can provide. That is why I am proud to introduce the bipartisan NEST Act that will ensure mothers have the supplies and resources they need to care for themselves and their newborns.”
Woman’s Hospital in Baton Rouge has recently partnered with HHS and Baby2Baby - a non-profit specializing in providing essential supplies to families in need - to distribute these toolkits to local mothers and babies.
“As a healthcare participant in the newborn supply kit program, Woman’s Hospital is proud to provide new mothers in need with essential resources that support a strong start to parenthood,” said Rene Ragas, President & CEO of Woman’s Hospital. “These kits are game changers for our families, offering the peace of mind that comes with having supplies for those first critical days and weeks at home. The kits remove common sources of stress, allowing parents to focus on bonding with their newborn and navigating the early days of family life with confidence and care.”
“Congresswoman Letlow’s leadership in delivering vital support to new moms represents a bold and innovative step forward in addressing maternal health challenges,” said E.J. Kuiper, President and CEO of Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady Health System. “Maternal health is the cornerstone to ensuring healthy families and healthy communities, and initiatives like this have the power to save lives. Congresswoman Letlow has been a tireless champion for mothers and families in many policy areas, and we are grateful for her continued focus on ensuring that new mothers receive the care, supplies and support they need to thrive.”
