Topics in My Community
All new families need help. Having a baby can cost a lot of money. Ask for help! It can be frustrating to have needs and no one to help. That really needs to change. In the United States, there is a need for much more support and resources for new families than is available. Some Medicaid and insurance plans will cover some of these needs; find out if yours does.
Diapers: One in three families in the US experience diaper need. That is a lot of families – you are not alone. If you are running short on diapers, please reach out to your local diaper bank. Many communities have diaper banks. Some diaper banks also have feminine hygiene products. Not sure how to find one? You can ask your healthcare provider. You can also check out the National Diaper Bank Network.
Food: The Women, Infant and Children’s Click here to learn how to apply in your state. Many communities also have food pantries that can help. Not sure how to find one near you? Click here to link to Feeding America.
Support Groups: Being in a group with other birthing people who are experiencing the same thing that you are can be really helpful. You might be able to find a good circle of mothers through the options described in “Find Out What’s Happening.” You could also ask your healthcare provider – either your provider or your baby’s provider for a connection. You can call your local health department for classes. You can also try calling a local group that offers counseling for families and ask if they have groups.
Home Visiting: Some communities offer programs that might bring a nurse or community worker to your home to check on you and offer resources. There are also some early parenting programs that work with pregnant and new families that have people come to your home. Does this sound helpful to you? Call your local health department or ask your healthcare provider if such a service exists. Let them know you are interested!
Doulas: Having a doula helps you to navigate both pregnancy and postpartum. They will likely help you know who to call and resources you can use to be sure you have the supplies and services you need.
Buy-Nothing or Free Mother Supply Swap Facebook Groups: On Facebook, there are lots of private and/or secret local groups that allow community members to list free items they want to pass along. You can also post what you are searching for or may need. Find out if your town has a Buy Nothing or similar type of Facebook Group. Here’s some information about how to search for groups online.
FREE services, such as tobacco-cessation, safe sleep support, and topic-specific resources are available.
