When hard work isn't enough
Last week, I received a text from a local business owner who was worried about one of his staff members. She was a young mother doing everything she could to care for her newborn baby—working hard, buying formula, and trying to make every dollar stretch. But infant formula is expensive, and after paying for it, there was almost nothing leftover for diapers. She made just enough income that she did not qualify for assistance, but not enough to meet every need on her own.
The business owner reached out to ask how he could help her receive diapers from Bottoms Up. I explained that while we do not typically provide diapers directly to individuals, we could help one time and then connect the family with some of our local partners for ongoing support. It warmed by heart to be able to deliver diapers to this young mother and help meet an immediate need. When she received them, her face said everything words could not. She was overwhelmed with gratitude, hugged me, and thanked me again and again.
This is why Bottoms Up exists. So many families are doing their very best to provide for their children, yet still find themselves facing impossible choices between basic necessities. Sometimes, one small act of support can bring comfort, dignity, and relief at just the right moment. We are honored to be here for families when they need us most.
-Rachel McCoy, Bottoms Up General Manager
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