Washington, D.C. – First Lady Melania Trump traveled to Boston yesterday morning, where she highlighted a treatment program for babies born with Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS). The trip comes as part of her signature Be Best initiative for child well-being.
Photos: See the First Lady promote Be Best in Boston
“As you may know, this is an issue I am very focused on,” Mrs. Trump said from the medical center. “I hope today’s visit helps shine a light on programs like yours.”
During the visit, the hospital’s staff and leadership gave her a firsthand look at their innovative lineup of programs. First up was one called Project RESPECT, which provides medically assisted treatment to almost 200 women annually. Its mission is to create a more stable environment for mothers and their babies.
Another important program at the center is called CALM, which stands for “Cuddling Assists in Lowering Maternal and Infant Stress.” The initiative brings in volunteers from across the community to hold babies with NAS, offering them comfort while also decreasing withdrawal symptoms when a child’s parents aren’t available.
The final initiative the First Lady observed is called the Supporting Our Families Through Addiction and Recovery (SOFAR) Clinic. The SOFAR Clinic, launched in 2017, focuses on the wellness of families as a whole during the lengthy addiction recovery process.
Mrs. Trump had the chance to meet firsthand with children and families currently enrolled in the SOFAR program. “Be Best is dedicated to shining a light on programs similar to the ones I learned about today,” she said. “The programs implemented supply the necessary services and education to patients and families struggling with addiction.”
