Written by Melissa Walcott
The HomeAid Atlant a Essentials Drive collects essential baby items for families at risk for homelessness across the metro area. The record-breaking 21st annual drive lasted from April 1 through May 4, gathering over 242,130 diapers, baby wipes and more. The organization recognizes the need and challenges present for individuals and families attempting to secure basic needs in times of transition or crisis. The 2022 drive surpassed last year’s record by more than 15,000 items!
During April and the beginning of May, community members dropped off diapers and baby wipes at nearly 30 Essentials Drop-Off Locations, as well as shopped HomeAid Atlanta’s online baby registries at Amazon and Target. Atlanta companies also held fundraising contests and office-wide drives, yielding approximately $8,000 to purchase additional essential items.
On May 5, a team of 27 volunteers spent the day at the North Georgia Brick Cumming warehouse sorting, counting, and packing donated baby items. On May 6, HomeAid staff, volunteers from O’Kelley and Sorohan, Attorneys at Law, LLC , and UPS employees assisted with the distribution to 20 participating nonprofits that provide housing and services for families with infants or toddlers experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
The HomeAid Atlanta 21st Annual Essentials Drive provided support for these metro Atlanta nonprofit organizations:
4Sarah, Inc.
Atlanta Children’s Shelter
Atlanta Mission
Ceek To Fulfill
City of Refuge
Community Advanced Practice Nurses, Inc
Crossroads Community Ministries, Inc.
Family Promise of Hall County
Forsyth County Family Haven, Inc.
Gateway House, Inc.
Helping Mamas, Inc.
Nicholas House Inc
Our House, Inc.
Phoenix Pass Inc.,
Rainbow Village
Solomon’s Temple Foundation
The Drake House
The Salvation Army Red Shield Services
The Salvation Army – Haven Atlanta
Wellroot Family Services
There is an estimated population of 5,500 people in the metro Atlanta region experiencing homelessness with almost 50% reported as women and children. A monthly supply of diapers costs an estimated $80, according to the National Diaper Bank . For families facing economic hardship, making diapers last, changing them less often and attempting to clean and reuse disposable diapers is a frequent practice.
“Many, many thanks for the incredible donation of diapers and wipes from the Essentials Drive! What a blessing for the many moms and children who come to us each week. This resource will take one more thing off their shoulders as they work so courageously to overcome situations of homelessness,” said Rev. Tony Johns, Crossroads Community Ministries Executive Director.
The designated charity of the Greater Atlanta Home Builders Association , HomeAid Atlanta is a nonprofit organization with a core mission to support people experiencing or at risk for homelessness through community engagement, construction and education. The organization has completed over 170 construction projects at locations for teen mothers, victims of domestic violence, veterans and more by utilizing connections with building industry professionals and community organizations.
To learn how your company can provide a facelift for organizations across the metro area supporting individuals at risk or experiencing homelessness, visit www.HomeAidAtlanta.org.
Source: Atlanta Real Estate Forum
