Louisiana Hurricane Victims in Urgent Need of Diapers, Formula

Katrina Leaves Smallest Victims in Need

The American Pregnancy Association (APA) is responding to an urgent call by officials in Louisiana for diapers and formula. As a national maternal health helpline and non-profit organization, the APA is collecting donations and coordinating specific collection efforts for delivering these basic infant needs.

Of the hundreds of thousands of hurricane evacuees seeking refuge, thousands are infants who desperately need diapers and formula and other infant basic care supplies. Mary Craig, R.N. with the Louisiana Office of Public Health confirms that diapers and formula are of the utmost concern. Craig adds, "Women and infants of Louisiana have been a high-risk population and are now at a higher risk than before."

As a partner with Maternal Child Health Division of Louisiana, APA serves Louisianans who call 1-800-251-BABY in need of assistance. Since Katrina, the number of calls to the hotline has increased tenfold with requests for diapers, formula and other infant care necessities from both those in need and the professionals who serve them.

Parish Health Units, shelters and pregnancy centers in Louisiana have all experienced a depletion of basic care items - especially formula. Specifically, Region 2 (Baton Rouge), Region 4 (Lafayette), and Region 5 (Lake Charles) are priority areas that need the most help. As resources permit, Alexandria in Region 6 also needs assistance.

How to Help:

1. For shipments ready to go, contact APA at 1-800-672-2296 for a list of
   facilities in greatest need.
2. Inform the APA of collection sites in your area for current donation
   efforts.
3. Visit www.americanpregnancy.org to make donations to purchase diapers
   and formula.
4. Call APA at 1-800-672-2296 to locate a drop off location.

"Our hearts go out to everyone displaced and in need because of Hurricane Katrina, but especially to babies," Dr. Brad Imler, president of the American Pregnancy Association, said. "The least we can do is provide the basic essentials to help them get back on their feet, and we encourage those who can donate, to give to this cause now."

For more information on the American Pregnancy Association, contact the American Pregnancy Association's toll-free education and support line at 1-800-672-2296 or visit the APA website at www.americanpregnancy.org

Distributed by Market Wire