COLORADO SPRINGS — COVID-19 is impacting the need for baby supplies to help low income and homeless families in Southern Colorado. Family Connections is a non-profit through Catholic Charities that helps to supplement these families. Shelves are looking thin.
Covid-19 adds to fear and financial stress. "They were already with very low paying jobs or insecurity around jobs and now they don't have the jobs. They don’t have the school support,” said Michelle Swanson with Family Connections, “It just adds another layer of trauma to the families who have already experienced so much trauma." The support system offers families face to face mentoring and life coaching. Now, doors at the center are locked to comply with social distancing rules and contact happens either over the internet or phone.
Then there is the support with emergency supplies. "We've had trouble with baby food, formula and diapers, said Swanson " Donations are down. It is likely because usual donors are doing what they are supposed to do and staying home to prevent more spread of the coronavirus.
There is currently no baby food; diapers are going fast, and the need three specific types of Enfamil formula. “Pediatrician don’t like you to switch back and forth between formulas,” said Swanson. Food and formulas for babies is about much more than financial help. "What we really don't want to happen is families, not have formula and to be making it stretch longer by diluting it or giving them other things that aren't as healthy," said Swanson.
The immediate need is for:
- Baby food
- Enfamil AR, Enfamil Infant, Enfamil Gentlease
- Diapers, type 4,5,6 and pullups
Donations are typically directed to the loading dock at Marion House Soup Kitchen. Because of altered hours due to COVID-19 restrictions, it is best to call in advance. You can call Family Connections at (719) 578-1222.
Donations are typically directed to the loading dock at Marion House Soup Kitchen in downtown Colorado Springs, where Catholic Charities is also taking food donations for feeding others in need.
