Free Cribs for Kids: Safe Sleep Starts at Montefiore Nyack Hospital
Nyack, N.Y., July 15, 2025 – Each year, around 3,500 babies in the United States die suddenly and unexpectedly while they are sleeping, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Most of these tragic deaths are due to sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) or accidental deaths from suffocation or strangulation. SIDS is the leading cause of death in babies between one month and one year old in the United States. About 2,500 infants die every year because of SIDS. Montefiore Nyack Hospital, in partnership with the New York State Office of Children and Family Services, is a proud partner of the Cribs for Kids Program, which helps families provide their babies with a designated safe sleep space in the form of a crib.
Through the Free Cribs for Kids Program, eligible families receive one free portable crib (Graco Pack ‘n Play), two fitted sheets, and easy-to-follow safe sleep education and support from our caring Community Health and Wellness Department. To qualify for a free portable crib, you must be a primary caregiver for a child under the age of one. If you’re expecting a baby or have a child under 1 year old and need a safe sleep space, you may qualify. Anyone who qualifies must sign a hold harmless agreement.
Babies with a secure sleeping environment tend to sleep better, which means less stress and more rest for caregivers. Getting a crib, especially in combination with sleep safety education, helps parents feel more prepared and supported in their new role.
For easy-to-remember safe sleep guidelines for babies and infants, follow the ABCs of Safe Sleep:
- Alone – no blankets, pillows, or stuffed animals
- Back – always place a baby on their back to sleep
- Crib – in a safety-approved crib, not an adult bed or couch
For more information, call Community Health and Wellness at Montefiore Nyack Hospital at 845-348-2876 or The Jacobs Family Maternity Center at Montefiore Nyack Hospital at 845-348-2620.
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About Montefiore Nyack Hospital
Montefiore Nyack Hospital is a 391-bed community acute care medical and surgical hospital that was founded in 1895 in Rockland County, NY. Its mission is to provide competent, innovative, and accessible emergency and acute care services to the residents of Rockland County and surrounding areas. It is a member of Montefiore Health System and a partner with Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine, providing clinical rotations to medical students. To learn more, visit montefiorenyack.org; follow us on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, and Instagram; and view us on YouTube.