The baby bank came about from the significant amount of food bank referrals we would have that also asked for nappies and baby formula or baby weaning foods.
We could only supply these items if they were subject to availability.
There was and is definitely a need out there for this and as I done my research the nearest official baby food bank was Taffs Well Cardiff even though we have a few other organisations that help with baby items around Newport there was no specific baby bank hence why Feed Newport ran with it.
We provide everything under one roof which means support workers, schools, health visitors and midwives can refer into us knowing we can supply food items for the adults in the household and also be able to supply baby formula, baby and toddler food, nappies, wet Wipes, toiletries and other items related to baby weaning and bathing.
We do stock a small amount of baby clothing, blankets and can source pushchairs and hair-chairs etc if requested.
We are working closely with the midwives at the nhs in Newport to put together maternity bags for ladies who sadly may go into hospital without one.
This is a project close to my heart because I know first hand what it is like to be a single, young parent and I wished there were services like this out there when I had my first child.
It’s all about giving a hand up and not a hand out.
In February 2021 Newport Baby Bank were extremely pleased to announce that The National Lottery Community Fund awarded us a grant to carry out this amazing project.