The Preemie Project will cease to operate independently in 2026, according to founder Mandy Booth, who highlighted financial challenges as the reason for this transition. The organization will merge with Wynter’s Haven, a new nonprofit established by Kristen Lewis, which aims to provide essential medical equipment to families with children who have special needs in Dothan, Alabama.
Wynter’s Haven was founded in response to Lewis’s personal experiences with her daughter, Wynter, who required various medical supplies. Lewis noted that many families face lengthy delays in receiving necessary equipment, stating, “It could be six months to a year before you could get a medical stroller or a gait trainer or even a piece for the gait trainer, like what we’re needing now.” The goal of Wynter’s Haven is to alleviate these delays by collecting and redistributing medical equipment to those in need.
The nonprofit has already begun its operations by gathering and distributing medical supplies. However, the official launch is set for 2026. Lewis encourages families with unused medical equipment to consider donating, emphasizing that such contributions can significantly aid others who are waiting for insurance approvals or are unable to afford devices due to previous coverage limitations.
“Our mission is to support families who are in urgent need of medical equipment,” Lewis explained. “With everyone donating their stuff, we can give it to other families that are either waiting on insurance or they just cannot get it because they got a device six months ago or a year ago, and insurance won’t cover it now.”
As the merger approaches, Booth expressed optimism about the collaboration, believing that combining resources will enhance the support network for families facing similar challenges. The Preemie Project, which has provided valuable assistance to premature infants and their families, will now be part of a broader initiative aimed at improving access to critical medical resources.
Wynter’s Haven is actively seeking donations and can be found on social media platforms, including Facebook. The initiative aims not only to assist families in Dothan but also to raise awareness about the pressing need for accessible medical equipment for children with special needs.
Families interested in supporting this cause are encouraged to reach out through Wynter’s Haven’s social media channels, where they can find more information on how to donate items or contribute to the organization’s efforts.
