KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — An East Tennessee nonprofit focused on helping new moms is working to make sure those who can't get supplies due to the spread of coronavirus are being taken care of.
Helping Mamas Knoxville started last fall. Since then, they've helped more than 750 new moms and caretakers in the community.
A quarter of the children in Tennessee live in homes below the federal poverty threshold, according to the National Center for Children in Poverty. That's higher than the national average.
Because of this, nonprofits like Helping Mamas Knoxville exist.
"That's where we come in to help with all the items. Like diapers and wipes those are the essential items," said executive director Tess Frear.
The nonprofit works with more than 20 partners to help deliver the items.
In January they gave out more than 2,800 diapers along with other essentials like wipes, clothing, diaper bags and pacifiers.
In February, more than 2,100 diapers were given out. They expect this month's need to be even more.
As more are practicing social distancing, being quarantined in their homes, or possibly being laid off — the nonprofit's job is more important than ever.
"Some caseworkers are requesting more items because they're worried for those families going to be left with nothing or unable to get out," said Frear.
If you're unable to find toilet paper, Frear encourages you to think about others before turning to alternatives that are essential for babies and children.
"Just buy what you need like they're saying. That way everybody has the option to get the things they need for their babies," she said.
And if you'd like to help by donating, you can find more information here.