SCHERERVILLE | Ask a parent-to-be for their fondest wish, and most will tell you, "We just want a healthy baby."  

Unfortunately, more than 470,000 babies in the United States are born prematurely, leading to a host of birth defects and medical complications.  

Advance Financial Federal Credit Union, which has branches in Gary, Schererville and East Chicago, is showing its support for the March of Dimes' efforts to reduce birth defects, premature birth, and low birth weight by conducting its annual "Moe Money, Fewer Birth Defects" fundraiser through April 15.     

Advance Financial's branch locations at 1544 W. 36th Ave. in Gary, 31 W. U.S. 30 in Schererville, and 4035 Alder St. in East Chicago, are selling a bean bag pet or plush toy version of their popular Kid's Club mascot "Moe" Monkey for $6. All proceeds from this toy sale will benefit the March of Dimes.

"Our Kids' Club mascot Moe Monkey is a big hit with children every time he appears in a parade, festival or other public event," said Advance Financial's President and CEO John Wohadlo. "So we decided to utilize his consumer popularity to help raise money for the March of Dimes."    

For details about AFFCU's "Moe Money; Fewer Birth Defects" fundraiser, visit www.advancefcu.org, stop by any branch location or call (toll-free) (800) 888-0959.

Advance Financial Federal Credit Union is open to the public in Lake County.