SAN DIEGO — The journey of becoming a mother can be joyous but also stressful, especially if you face financial struggles.
The Foundation for Women Warriors says 62 percent of the veterans they serve are single moms and many could use a little help.
A case of diapers cost $45, a tube of diaper rash cream can cost $9, and a box of 100 breast milk storage bags is $15, that adds up to about $70 for a few baby essentials. That’s a lot of money, imagine what it’s like for an expectant mom who is transitioning out the military with very few resources.
U.S. Marine veteran Keshia Javis-Jones was on active duty when she got pregnant with her son 17 years ago.
“I was an E-3 when I got pregnant. And those are not big checks at all. And to think about paying childcare, to think about all the essential things I need to get for my son. Even when I was searching for cribs, I was like, 'wow, this is so expensive,'” said Javis-Jones.
And the struggle is still real especially for expectant veterans starting a new beginning after their military service.
“Someone who might be transitioning out of the military, from a job where you had social support, and emotional support to now you’re starting this new segment of your life, and you’re expecting a baby, or you’ve just welcomed a baby, the financial impacts can be very overwhelming,” said Jodie Grenier, U.S. Marine veteran, Foundation for Women Warriors CEO.
That’s where the Foundation for Women Warriors comes in. They are a non-profit based in Vista, that provides resources for female veterans. From March 26 to June 7 they are hosting a community driven Bright Beginnings baby shower for expectant veterans.
“We get to see in their eyes when they receive the goods, how appreciative they are,” said Javis-Jones.
The goal is to serve 100 women veterans and their families this year and they need the community’s help to ensure new moms have their bright beginning.
“You can also shop the Foundation for Women Warriors Amazon Wishlist for diapers, car seats, strollers, bath tubs and even some TLC items for mom.
“If you are a part of an employee resource group that’s looking to do something fun for the community, host your own drive,” said Grenier.
This is more than a baby shower, this is about serving a sisterhood.
“It’s building a family here with us at Foundation for Women Warriors. It’s the support that you need,” said Javis-Jones.
Gently used items are accepted but they will be put to the side for moms to pick out on their own time.
New items will be included in the Bright Beginnings baby shower drive.
You can donate via Amazon Wishlist, monetary donations, host your own drive.
Small and large donations can go a long way. Foundation for Women Warriors says $25 can purchase baby bottles and infant sleepwear, $50 provides a one-month supply of diapers and wipes, $100 provides a stroller or crib, $250 pays for a new mom & baby kit.
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