Warm Hearts-Warm Babies

Background Statement

Warm Hearts Warm Babies, Inc. received 501 (c) 3 status in September 2000 with 5 board members and approximately 60 volunteers. We previously had been serving the babies of Colorado since 1998 as a chapter of the organization Newborns In Need out of Missouri. Our board decided we could best serve the babies in Colorado as a state based organization. We found there was a very needed but sad need to offer burial clothing to premature babies that did not make it, still born babies of all sizes, and babies that died of complications. These packets are requested by the hospitals and kept on hand. There is a packet that goes home with the mother that includes a handkerchief for a mother's tears, and envelope for a picture or bracelet, an angel, and a blanket or outfit, besides a burial outfit. No new mother expects this to happen but at least they leave with something.

We also provide Layette Bags to mothers and newborns in need that contain 20 mostly handmade items free of charge. Each Layette Bag contains a tote bag, a quilt or afghan, 2 receiving blankets, 2 bibs, 2 burp pads, 2 onesies, a sleeper, a gown, 2 outfits, a sweater jacket, a hat, socks, a toy, and a bottle. Our layette bags are valued at $250.00 each. I have attached pictures of a Layette Bag and its contents.

We donate to over 50 agencies, from Larimer County in northern Colorado to Pueblo County in southern Colorado, that serve a diverse population. They include pregnancy centers, hospitals, shelters, clinics in low-income areas, and specialized local support agencies. We rely on these agencies to determine which families need our assistance.

Many of the recipients of our Layette Bags would be leaving the hospital with their newborn in a diaper and hospital blanket without our help. To many, going home means a car, shelter, or the street.