The Nest is kicking off a month-long diaper drive to benefit the babies living at the domestic violence shelter in Ruidoso Downs.
Each year, the Nest serves over 300 women and kids each year, over half of whom are children. “It’s not unusual for us to serve a family with more than one child in diapers. Despite the economic downturn, victim advocates with ever-tightening budgets are able to continue to help so many in need because of the generous support from our community,” shares Office Manager Susanne Francis.
These terrified families arrive at the shelter often without diapers and provisions for their children because the abuser controls the finances and oftentimes will not allow the mother to purchase things the newborn or infant needs.
Each year, the National Network to End Domestic Violence conducts a 24-hour survey of domestic violence programs across the county. “Domestic Violence Counts” is a snapshot of what happens in one day in American shelters. The last survey was September 15, 2010 and it found over 20,000 children were living in an emergency shelter or transitional housing somewhere in America.
The Nest participated in Domestic Violence Counts 2010.
According to Julie Gilliland, member of the HEAL Board of Directors, “In addition to that statistic, which is horrifying in and of itself, it is startling to me to know that 36 innocent babies were born in a domestic violence shelter on that day. People just don’t realize how many children are in that position.”
To donate to the “Oh Baby!” diaper drive, please visit one of our convenient drop-off locations: Walgreen’s Drug Store, Burke’s Outlet, Starbucks, Lawrence Brothers or Sweet Charity Resale Boutique. Both loose and packaged diapers of all sizes are appreciated. The diaper drive will continue through the end of January.
If you prefer to make a financial contribution, which enables The Nest to buy diapers at an extreme discount, please mail a tax-deductible donation/check earmarked “Diaper Drive” to 26374 US 70 East, Ruidoso Downs, NM 88346.
For more information, please call the Nest at 378-6378.
Pictured is a child friend of the Nest.