What is one baby care essential families cannot live without? Answers may vary, but all infants require diapers. And yet, diapers are not covered or subsidized by any federal or state assistance programs.
For many families across the Metro Denver area, the ongoing cost baby care essentials such as diapers, formula, and other day-to-day items is prohibitive.
Serving families is a key part of Mile High United Way’s mission. In previous years our Women United Community Baby Shower supported families by providing access to essential baby care supplies. This year, we expanded the event to serve more families at the first Women United Village.
More than 100 families received supplies to help care for their little ones, including more than 300 boxes of diapers, 20 strollers, 200 bottles, 400 pacifiers, nearly 50 car seats, and other items including clothing and age-appropriate books.
“Diapers, wipes, and formula can take up to 12% of a family’s income if they are making minimum wage. That doesn’t take into consideration expensive car seats, strollers, cribs, and other items vital to a young child’s safety and wellbeing,” said Katy Walton, Senior Director of Donor and Volunteer Engagement.
“At the Women United Village, we partnered with resilient families in our community to provide them with essential items for their little ones, so that they can focus on their child’s development. It’s a great reminder to us all that it truly takes a village to raise a family and a community united to raise our next generation,” she added.
During The Village, community guests had the opportunity to meet with staff from Mile High United Way programs, including the 211 Help Center, United for Families, and Bridging the Gap. See more coverage of the Village from CBS4, here.
Community partners Crafty Chassis, CampExperience Network, and Rent-A-Theme Entertainment provided spaces for children and parents to do arts and crafts and engage in stimulating play. Staff from Denver Public Library, Savio House, and the YMCA of Metro Denver also were on hand to meet with parents, share information, and answer questions.
“(The Village) was very helpful for me. Being a mom of two with one on the way has made working hard for me,” said Emily, a Bridging the Gap participant who attended the Village with her children. “Being able to get expensive items like diapers wipes and a play (pen) have been a stressful thing to think about. This event was able to provide me with those items and took a few of the many stresses off my shoulders. My youngest kid had a blast with all the books and crafts that were available. It gave us new books to explore and read at bed time which is a vital time for us to bond. I am grateful for the help I received.”
This event was made possible by members of Women United, a group of women committed to supporting and lifting up women and girls on their path to economic success and security. Thank you to our members and everyone in the community who helped bring this event to life. You have shown what it means to be a community united. Learn more about Mile High United Way Women United and how you can get involved.
