The infant mortality rate in Lowndes County is well above the state's rate at more than 16% according to the South Health District.

The Lowndes County Health Department is trying to lower it with a program called Baby Luv.

Baby Luv (Lowndes Unique Victories) was started with a grant from the Georgia Chapter of March of Dimes.

It focuses on African American women because they say the demographic is twice as likely to have an infant death.

Nurses make in home visits and provide information and support during and after the pregnancy.

The goal of the program is to reduce the rate of infant mortality by 20% and the rate of low birth weight by 10% by the end of this year.

For information on registering for the program, call the Lowndes County Health Department at 229-333-5257 during regular business hours.