Babies require a lot of stuff. Not just diapers, carriers, and cribs, but all sorts of clothes, from winterwear to sleepers and everything in between. Babies also grow notoriously fast, and for families experiencing extreme need, constantly buying clothes to fit can be a significant financial challenge.
Outfitting newborns in need
That’s why Basically Babies is so important to thousands of families in Alberta. The registered charity provides newborn babies in need with a layette containing a complete wardrobe for their first year.
Each basket contains approximately 120 items and is filled to the brim with clothing, outerwear, blankets, toys, storybooks, sleepers, undershirts, footwear, quilts, and other essential baby items. The clothes and sizes are based on the sex and birthday of the assigned baby.
Some of the items in these layettes are new, but many are gently used donations that are in “like new” condition. Basically Babies believes in the importance of demonstrating the value and worth of these families in practical ways, which is why second-hand will never equate to second-rate.
Winter is coming
However, with colder months on the horizon, there is an increased need for various fall and winter items. While Basically Babies is currently accepting all gently used items sized for 0 to 24 months, they are in greatest need of:
- Snow suits
- Socks
- Sleepers
- Shoes
- Undershirts
- Tights
- Towels and washcloths
- Receiving blankets
In Edmonton, you can drop off donations Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. In Calgary, you can drop off on Tuesday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
If you don’t have any gently used baby clothes to donate but still want to help, financial donations are always welcome. You can donate online using a credit or debit card by visiting Canada Helps and selecting the Calgary or Edmonton layette program from the dropdown menu. You can also volunteer your time by helping sort through clothes to build layettes.
Visit the Basically Babies website to learn more about their incredible work, and if you’re able, consider making a donation during this time of high need.
Basically Babies Edmonton
Where: 14839 118th Ave.
Hours: Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Basically Babies Calgary
Where: 5 2616 16th St. NE
Hours: Tuesday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
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