SKILLMAN, NJ, October 29, 2008- JOHNSON’S® has announced the launch of the “Prevent Prematurity Campaign” that partners with the March of Dimes to help build awareness of the growing problem of premature birth and raise funds to support the initiatives of the nonprofit organization. JOHNSON’S® will carry out a nationwide program that donates ten cents to the March of Dimes for every JOHNSON’S® Baby product purchased during the months of November and December.  This campaign comes as part of JOHNSON’S® long-standing commitment to empower mothers and babies with the medical care they need to live healthy lives.

“Today, 1 in 8 babies is born prematurely, which increases the risk for lifelong medical complications and death,” said Caitlin Pappas, U.S. General Manager of JOHNSON’S® Baby Care. “It is crucial for us to prevent these tragedies from happening in the first place, which is why we are committed to supporting the March of Dimes in helping to decrease the number of premature births and empower mothers across the nation.”

“We are thrilled to partner with JOHNSON’S®, a company that has a continued record of working to improve the quality of life for mothers and babies around the world, “ said Dr. Jennifer L. Howse, President of the March of Dimes. “It is our hope that the ‘Prevent Prematurity Campaign’ brings public awareness to the serious problem of premature birth and inspires others to do all they can to make sure the babies within their families and communities are born full term.”

Beyond the product proceeds throughout November and December 2008, up to $100,000, JOHNSON’S® will launch a multi-faceted communications campaign that includes direct mail brochures, displays within retailers and Web outreach to over 700,000 moms nationwide. The goal of this campaign is to not only continue JOHNSON’S® philanthropic partnerships, but also to raise funds and elevate consumer engagement that will support the fight against prematurity and increase awareness of the March of Dimes and its mission.  

The more than 500,000 babies born too soon in the U.S. every year — babies born before 37 completed weeks gestation — account for a growing proportion of infant deaths, according to the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS).  Additionally, these babies often face the challenges associated with lasting disabilities such as cerebral palsy, mental retardation, learning problems, chronic lung disease and vision and hearing problems, making half of all neurological disabilities in children related to premature birth. In order to reduce the nation’s infant mortality rate and provide every baby with a healthy start in life, premature birth must be prevented.

About the March of Dimes
The March of Dimes is the leading organization for pregnancy and baby health.  With chapters nationwide and its premier event, March for Babies®, the March of Dimes works to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality. For the latest resources and information, visit marchofdimes.com or nacersano.org.

About JOHNSON’S®
JOHNSON'S®, a brand of the Johnson & Johnson Consumer Products Company, division of Johnson & Johnson Consumer Companies, Inc., has a long tradition of providing pure, mild, gentle and clinically-proven baby products formulated especially for babies. The most trusted name in baby care, JOHNSON'S ® is rooted in science and has a 115-year leadership in the industry; every product undergoes rigorous clinical testing to ensure it meets the highest standards. JOHNSON'S ® takes pride in continuing to create and supply parents and healthcare professionals with the best essentials and innovations in baby care.  For more information about the JOHNSON'S® brand and its product offerings, visit www.johnsonsbaby.com.