Room To Grow
In several weeks, I'm going to be a launching a new program for families in and around boston (details to come). As I was developing the idea for my new venture, I started thinking that it might be nice to hook up with a local charity of some kind, not only to complement what I'm doing, but also to allow me to give back to the community in a way that might be a little more relevant than donating a few dollars here and there. So after much thought and many queries, the good people over at Isis Maternity turned me on to Room to Grow, an organization currently serving Boston and New York.
I was intrigued from the get-go. The mission is simple:
"The mission of Room to Grow is to enrich the lives of babies born into poverty throughout their critical first three years of development."
What this means is the organization works with poverty-stricken moms from their 3rd trimester until Baby is three years old (at which time the city's resources become more abundant). The provide not only support through social workers, but equally as important, they outfit the child with clothing and toys EVERY THREE MONTHS until that child's 3rd birthday. The mom visits the center and actually chooses clothing and developmentally appropriate gear for her child. Every visit consists of books to take home as well.
How awesome is that?
I met with Audrey yesterday at RTG, the amazing Program Director. She told me the story of a family they recently worked with whose baby was developmentally behind as a result of the fact that the family had no money to provide toys to stimulate him. RTG donated a simple Johnny Jumper to this family and by his next pediatrician's appointment, the doctor was amazed at his progress. Something most of us take for granted, a simple $25 toy, made an enormous difference in this child's life. At that moment, I was sold.
Room to Grow collects not only donations, but also new or nearly new clothes and toys (anything in excellent condition) to distribute. Please visit the list of suitable items and let me know if you can help. I am willing to bring your unwanted items to their offices for you or get you more information. If you live in another city, mail me your items and I will see that they get there. RTG ocassionally seeks particular items (sizes and whatnot) and you will find that information here.
I am so looking forward to working with this organization and will bring you so much more news in the coming months!!
