Community Foundation Donates 100 Heartbeat Bears to West Tennessee Women’s Center

Published:
August 8, 2024

The Community Foundation of West Tennessee donated 100 heartbeat bears to West Tennessee Women’s Center at Jackson-Madison County General Hospital as a part of the Butterfly’s Embrace program.

The Community Foundation learned about the need for this program during its grant cycle for 100 Women Who Care: West Tennessee in January 2024. Butterfly’s Embrace submitted a proposal to be considered for the grant and explained the impact of heartbeat bears.

“Because one in four pregnancies end in a loss, our mission is to identify these families and care for them wherever they are in their grief,” said Tammy Hardee, RN, Certified Perinatal Bereavement Counselor. “Our bereavement team can utilize the heartbeat bear to provide a bit of tangible comfort for some of these families.”

A nurse captures the sound of the baby's heartbeat and records it on a device. Itis then placed inside of one of the stuffed animals and given to the family.

“Moms find great comfort in hearing their baby's heartbeat in the face of this devastating news. It can also be used to share with the baby's siblings at home who are expecting a new baby brother or sister,” said Hardee.

Butterfly’s Embrace was established in 2015 as a program of the West Tennessee Women’s Center and serves families who experience the loss of a baby.

“As someone who has personally seen family and friends deal with the loss of a baby, I am grateful we are able to provide a token of comfort for some of these families,” said Beth Koffman, Chief Operating Officer for the Community Foundation. “Providing support to programs like Butterfly’s Embrace reminds us of the different ways we can strengthen the health and well-being of our community.”
Our bereavement team can utilize the heartbeat bear to provide a bit of tangible comfort for some of these families.
More News

2024-2025 Community Impact Grants Now Open

2.1.2024

The Community Foundation of West Tennessee is accepting proposals from area nonprofits for its annual Community Impact Grants. These grants support programs and initiatives that benefit the residents of West Tennessee.

Learn More Learn More

100 Women Who Care Accepting Grant Applications

1.2.2024

100 Women Who Care: West Tennessee is accepting applications from local nonprofits for their first grant awards since relaunching in August. The deadline to apply for the grants is January 31, 2024.

Learn More Learn More

6 Reasons to Make a Year-End Gift

12.8.2023

'Tis the season for giving, and we are sharing 6 reasons why you should make a gift during the hustle and bustle of the end of the year.

Learn More Learn More