Transparency Post: Baby Formula Fund
We opened the formula fund May 20th, 2022 as an emergent response to the national formula fund shortage that left baby formula out of stock in various stores.
Our response was to support twin cities families impacted by delivering the formula to their doorsteps. transportation to stores outside of their regular range became a major barrier and made it difficult for families to access their formula. we also have been giving direct aid to families non-invasively.
Remember that the formula shortage is still occurring. The biggest baby formula plant in the US (located in Michigan), has reopened but not yet began production, so families are still relying on imported formula for their children. Please keep in mind the urgency of baby formula and how it requires community to support our vulnerable families.
Since May, we have had over 50 applicants (about 20 caregivers a month)
From 5/20/22 to 7/15/22 we've received $3,100 in donations. Here is the breakdown on where the funds were allocated:
Distributing financial aid directly to families($50-80 per family) = $2,800
Purchasing formula to deliver (including reimbursing volunteers who purchased formula & dropped it off to our office) = $400
Our goals for the program:
Have at least $700 a week in donations to keep our variety of formula types in stock
Be able to give at least $100 in aid for our applicants instead of $55-80.
Thank you to everyone who has supported this emergent response program! Mobilizing efforts in response to a crisis is something that comes with lots of strategic planning and thinking, while learning how to do so in a quick manner with something as urgent as formula. We would love to continue caring for our families, so if you are able to become a monthly donor to the baby formula fund, it would be deeply appreciated.
You can also donate your time by volunteering as a delivery driver!
Stay tuned for the next update,
SWS Team