For many families, the earliest days of parenthood can feel overwhelming, especially when access to resources and support is limited.

So when our team gathered in Charleston, South Carolina for a recent company offsite, we didn't want to just be in the same room together. We wanted to do something that reminded us why we're in the room at all.

With our partners at March of Dimes, our team assembled 100 care packages that are now making their way to families in need across South Carolina through community baby shower events hosted by the Black Maternal Health Collective and The HOPE Program.

Inside each kit: Dream Sock®, an Owlet Sleeper, a safe sleep children's book, educational resources, and a handwritten note from an Owlet employee. 

Why South Carolina 

South Carolina continues to face some of the most serious maternal and infant health challenges in the country. In 2023, more than 400 infants dying before their first birthday — a rate of 7 per 1,000 live births. The disparities are even starker for Black mothers and babies, who face significantly worse outcomes due to systemic gaps in care and access.

More than a donation, these kits are intended to provide reassurance, education, and practical support to families who may be navigating high-risk pregnancies, NICU stays, or limited access to maternal and infant healthcare resources.

“Years before Owlet existed, I watched people I love experience the fear and uncertainty that can come with caring for a newborn. That instance is what first inspired us to build Owlet, and it’s still what drives us today. Putting these kits together was a reminder that supporting families goes far beyond technology. Sometimes it’s simply offering our time and resources that will help parents feel seen and cared for during an incredibly overwhelming time.” - Kurt Workman, Co-Founder and CEO of Owlet

Sitting down and writing a hand-written note to a mother you’ll never meet was one of the most meaningful parts of this activity. It challenged our whole team to think about what these moms might be going through, what you’d want someone to say to you, and why this kind of community support matters when you’re welcoming a baby into the world. 

Our team left South Carolina feeling deeply connected to our mission, and inspired to intentionally and impactfully reach parents no matter where they are at in their parenting journey. 

This initiative is part of Owlet Cares, our ongoing advocacy effort dedicated to improving the lives of babies and families through innovation, education and advocacy. Since 2021, Owlet has donated more than $2.5M in product and support directly to families and organizations who share in our mission.