The March of Dimes held a kick off for its fundraising campaign in Horry County this morning at Beef O'Brady's in Carolina Forest.

The event brought together families of babies born prematurely, as well as businesses that will support the cause.

March for Babies raises money for research to prevent premature birth and birth defects. The money raised also supports community programs that help moms have full term pregnancies.

The March of Dimes says premature births affect more than half a million babies each year. Last November, the March of Dimes issued the 2nd Annual Prematurity Report Card, grading the US and individual states on how well they prevent premature births. The nation got a "D" grade and South Carolina received an "F."

The March for Babies in Horry County is sponsored by WPDE NewsChannel 15, Ally Management, A&I: The Fire and Water Restoration People, Bi-Lo, Coastal Carolina University, Wachovia-A Wells Fargo Company, BCBS of South Carolina, Valcourt Building Services, and NextMedia Radio.

For the latest resources and information on the March for Babies, visit www.marchofdimes.com or www.nacersano.org.

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