Many of the Americans who are most staunchly anti-abortion seem to lose focus on infants once the cord is cut. Gov. Rick Perry of Texas, Dubya without the likability, is currently waging war on the Affordable Health Care Act, legislation that could help a state that’s abysmal in providing medical insurance for children. He’s not alone, of course, which helps explain why such a wealthy nation has such an agonizingly high infant mortality rate. Finland, which has one of the lowest death rates for newborns, has a simple measure to keep hope alive: a box of baby supplies the state gives each expectant mother. The opening of “Why Finnish Babies Sleep in Cardboard Boxes,” by Helena Lee at BBC News:

“It’s a tradition that dates back to the 1930s and it’s designed to give all children in Finland, no matter what background they’re from, an equal start in life.

The maternity package – a gift from the government – is available to all expectant mothers.

It contains bodysuits, a sleeping bag, outdoor gear, bathing products for the baby, as well as nappies, bedding and a small mattress.

With the mattress in the bottom, the box becomes a baby’s first bed. Many children, from all social backgrounds, have their first naps within the safety of the box’s four cardboard walls.

Mothers have a choice between taking the box, or a cash grant, currently set at 140 euros, but 95% opt for the box as it’s worth much more.

The tradition dates back to 1938.” (Thanks Browser.)