At the State Capitol, Assembly and Senate members joined
representatives from HomeAid Sacramento and Orange County, and the
First 5/Children and Families Commissions to kick off the Essentials
for Young Lives campaign – a drive to collect baby items for homeless
mothers and their infants.
The Essentials program is a joint effort between HomeAid and First
5/Children and Families Commissions to collect essential items, such as
diapers, baby wipes, baby food, shampoo, wash, etc. These items are
then donated to qualified programs that serve homeless women and
children through shelters and transitional facilities.
“During these tough economic times, families are struggling to make
ends meet,” said Assemblyman Curt Hagman (R-Diamond Bar). “The
Essentials for Young Lives program is about helping those who need it
the most by getting homeless mothers the items their babies need.”
“Mothers and children are the fastest growing segment of the
homeless population,” said Assemblywoman Alyson Huber (D-Lodi). “We
need to do what we can to help them out.”
This is the third year that HomeAid and Children and Families
Commission of Orange County have partnered on the campaign that takes
place before the Mother’s Day holiday. Since 2008 more than 250,000
essential baby items have been distributed to homeless mothers and
their infants. Last year, HomeAid Sacramento in its inaugural drive
supplied three months worth of baby products to nine area shelters.
This year, the 2010 campaign has expanded to include the State
Capitol with the expectation that the state legislative offices will
participate and collect items in their offices. All collected items
will be distributed to programs supported by HomeAid Sacramento.
“I am proud to support the “Essentials for Young Lives” campaign,”
said Senator Lou Correa (D-Santa Ana). “Many families in California
have been affected by this economic recession. They have lost their
jobs, their homes and some of those affected are the most vulnerable
among us. Please open your hearts to help. What seems like small things
to us, mean a great deal to them.”
Starting today, folks visiting the Capitol can drop off items that
will be given out to needy families at local homeless shelters. The
public is invited to bring donations of diapers, baby wipes, baby food
and baby hygiene products. Donations will be delivered to HomeAid’s
service provider partners that give aid and shelter to homeless
families. The families will receive the donations during Mother’s Day
weekend.
Click on the link below to view the press conference at the State Capitol.
https://www.calchannel.com/channel/viewVideo/1298