With the help of thousands of volunteers across the country, First Candle helps guide national and local political action to ensure that SIDS, stillbirth and other causes of sudden infant death receive adequate awareness and funding.

Since 1985, Federal funding for SIDS research has increased from $300,000 to its current level of $17 million.In recent years, working through the National Institutes of Health and its Stillbirth Collaborative Research Network, First Candle has helped increase Federal funding available for stillbirth research from $0 to its current level of more than $3 million.

Throughout First Candle’s more than 40 year history, advocating for issues related to infant health and survival has been the cornerstone of our efforts and it remains a priority today. Whether advocating for federal funding to support research, supporting legislation at the state or federal level or sharing testimonials from parents whose babies have died, First Candle gives a voice to all those interested in the health and well-being of our nation’s most prized citizens – our babies.

Here you will find information on First Candle’s current advocacy agenda, as well as opportunities to take action and let your voice be heard.

Bryan Cave Strategies is the public policy and government affairs firm that represents First Candle on Capitol Hill. We are fortunate to have their guidance and support as we continue toward our goal of a future where all babies survive and thrive.

Last Updated: Dec 30, 2009