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The annual Walk for Prems will be held in nine locations across Australia during the month of October to raise vital funds and awareness for the 48,000 babies born premature or sick in Australia each year.
Now in its 17th year, Walk for Prems is the largest fundraiser for the Life’s Little Treasures Foundation – Australia’s foremost charity dedicated to supporting the families of babies born sick or before 37 weeks gestation – and is proudly presented by Baby Bunting.
This year, the event is being held in Perth, Sydney, Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra, Shepparton, Bendigo, Ballarat and Melbourne. A virtual walk option is also available, offering registrants the freedom and flexibility to participate, regardless of their location.
Over the past sixteen years, Walk for Prems has raised $5.7 million, without any significant funding from the government, and this year Life’s Little Treasures Foundation hopes to raise $600,000 for families in need.
Australia has 24 level three neonatal intensive care units (the highest level of care) and more than 100 special care nurseries which are used by the approximately 40,000 premature and sick babies needing care.
“Each year, 1 in 7 newborn babies require life-saving care in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit or Special Care Nursery, and as the cost-of-living increases, it is growing substantially more difficult for parents to tackle the heavy financial demands of having a baby in a neonatal unit,” CEO of Life’s Little Treasures Foundation, Felicia Welstead said.
“Walking for Prems will allow parents of premature babies to receive vital support to relieve both the financial and emotional pressures of caring for a premature or sick baby. Funds will go towards providing families with educational resources and practical support through items such as fuel, accommodation, and food vouchers. Parents are also offered emotional support through our in-hospital morning tea sessions and online support groups.”
“Even as little as $10 goes a long way, enabling us to provide a family with a set of tailored milestone cards to help them celebrate the special moments,” said Felicia.
Walk for Prems provides an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere for all ages and brings together families of sick and premature babies (both past and present) as well as those who feel strongly for this worthwhile cause.
“We’re very excited to celebrate 17 years of this truly supportive community event throughout October. We welcome attendees of all backgrounds to join in on the range of entertainment on the day,” says Ms. Welstead.
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