Readiness Bags Project To Help New Moms In Harford County

HARFORD COUNTY, MD — An initiative aimed at supporting new mothers in Harford County has been launched with the first delivery of what's called Readiness Bags to first-time mothers in the maternity unit of the University of Maryland Upper Chesapeake Medical Center Bel Air.

The project, a collaboration between Harford County Public Schools, Harford County Education Foundation, the Harford County Health Department and the University of Maryland Upper Chesapeake Health, seeks to provide comfort and resources to new mothers as they begin their journey into parenthood.

The Readiness Bags, filled with a soft onesie for newborns, educational materials and early learning manipulatives, are designed to offer both immediate comfort and long-term benefits for the health and development of the child.

Dr. Sean Bulson, Superintendent of Harford County Public Schools, highlighted the significance of the program, stating, “This initiative represents the kind of community partnership that truly makes a difference. By supporting new mothers, we are laying the foundation for a healthier and more educated future for our children.”

The goal of the program is to provide 1,000 Readiness Bags each year, with quarterly deliveries to UM UCMC Bel Air.

“We are delighted to partner in this initiative,” said Elizabeth Wise, president and chief executive officer of the UM Upper Chesapeake Health. “These Readiness Bags are a wonderful way to show new mothers in our community that they are supported and valued. It’s about more than just the items in the bag – it’s about showing care and providing the tools to help their children thrive from the start.”

Debora Merlock, president of Harford County Education Foundation, added, “This project is close to our hearts because it’s about nurturing the potential of every child from the very beginning. We’re excited to see how these resources will benefit our community.”

“The Harford County Health Department focuses many of its services on the health and well-being of babies, children and families,” noted Harford County Health Officer Marcy Austin. “The Readiness Bag initiative provides moms and their babies with a great start to feeling supported by our community. The Harford County Health Department appreciates every opportunity to partner with Harford County Public Schools, the UM Upper Chesapeake Health, and Harford County Education Foundation on any and all health and education efforts.”