Keasha Maile, FEO, January 23, 2025, VOL. 6 ISSUE 10
The Mom Box Program, run out of Trinity Lutheran Church at 171 Bertie St., is a lifeline for families in need, offering essential baby and toddler supplies to those facing challenges. The program, founded by Megan Kelley and her cousin, Faith Schaeffer, was inspired by a moment of vulnerability that Faith experienced when her twins were babies.
“I had a blow-out diaper in the parking lot of Walmart, and I had no diapers with me,” Faith recalls. “I had to ask a woman next to me if she had a diaper. She said, ‘Mom-to-mom, I get it,’ and gave me a diaper. That moment sparked the idea that there should be more community support like this.”
The program is primarily donation-driven, with items sourced from both monetary contributions and physical donations. Individuals can donate funds through the church’s website via PayPal, or reach out on Facebook to donate specific items. The community’s involvement is crucial to keeping the program running, and it has continued to thrive thanks to local generosity.
“The best way to contact us for donating items is through our Facebook page, Trinity Lutheran Church – Mom Boxes,” Megan Kelley explains. “We’re always grateful for the support we receive.”
The Mom Box Program, hosted at the church, is open to all families in need, with no registration or fees required. Megan emphasizes that the program is inclusive and non-discriminatory, understanding that the faces of those in need can come in many forms.
“We want to make sure that no one feels excluded. If you need help, just show up on the days we’re open, and you’ll be welcomed with open arms,” Megan says.
Each month, families are invited to participate in the shopping experience, where they can access much-needed supplies like diapers, wipes, and baby care products. With the program’s increasing popularity, there is always a need for specific items, including larger-sized diapers, diaper cream, and children’s Tylenol or Advil.
In addition to meeting the ongoing needs of families, the program is also looking to expand its reach and volunteer base. “Last year, we helped over 2,000 individuals, including caregivers and children,” Megan shares. “Our goal is to continue providing support and hopefully surpass that number this year.”
The program will be adjusting its hours and availability this year due to changes in the lives of its directors, but Megan is confident that the community’s commitment will help keep the initiative alive and growing.
The next Mom Box event will take place on February 4th and 5th from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., offering families the chance to access much-needed supplies and support.