In a recent government meeting, representatives highlighted the impactful work of a grassroots nonprofit organization that has been addressing the needs of families in Washington state since 2020. The organization opened hub offices in Shelton and Yelm to better serve the large immigrant populations in these areas, providing essential supplies such as diapers, baby food, hygiene items, and period products.
The Shelton hub was established to assist families struggling to travel to Olympia for resources, while the Yelm office caters to clients in surrounding communities like Roy, Rainier, and Clearwood. The nonprofit's primary focus is on distributing diapers, but it has expanded its offerings to include wet wipes, baby blankets made by local women, and a new program providing 1,500 menstrual products each month.
All services are provided by volunteers, ensuring that every dollar raised goes directly to supporting the community. The organization has become a vital resource, with numerous stories illustrating the challenges faced by families in need. One poignant account shared involved a woman from Aberdeen who, despite being wheelchair-bound, traveled by bus to Olympia to secure preemie diapers for her sister's newborn. The organization was able to provide her with additional supplies, showcasing the critical role it plays in meeting urgent needs.
The meeting underscored the importance of community-driven initiatives in addressing local challenges and highlighted the ongoing demand for support among families in the region.