The Preemie Project will cease to function as an independent nonprofit organization in 2026, according to founder Mandy Booth. This decision is driven by ongoing financial challenges. Instead, the organization will merge with Wynter’s Haven, a new nonprofit established by Kristen Lewis, which aims to provide medical equipment to families with children who have special needs in the Dothan, Alabama area.
Wynter’s Haven was founded out of necessity, as Lewis experienced firsthand the difficulties of acquiring medical supplies for her daughter, Wynter. Families often face significant delays when trying to obtain essential medical equipment, with some waiting anywhere from six months to a year. “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,” Lewis shared.
This merger aims to streamline the process of obtaining necessary medical devices for families. Currently, many families are left in limbo, waiting for insurance approvals or unable to afford equipment they urgently need. Lewis emphasized the importance of community support, stating, “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.”
While Wynter’s Haven has begun collecting and distributing medical equipment, it will officially launch its operations in 2026. The organization encourages families with unused medical equipment to consider donating to support those in need. Lewis believes that by pooling resources, they can significantly reduce waiting times for essential equipment.
For those interested in supporting this initiative, Wynter’s Haven has an active presence on social media platforms like Facebook, where families can connect and learn more about donation opportunities. As the merger approaches, both organizations are hopeful that this collaboration will enhance their ability to serve families facing challenges in accessing vital medical supplies.
This strategic partnership reflects a growing trend in the nonprofit sector, where organizations are increasingly recognizing the benefits of collaboration to amplify their impact. By merging resources and expertise, The Preemie Project and Wynter’s Haven are positioning themselves to better meet the needs of their communities, ensuring that families receive the support they need in a timely manner.
