There's a new resource in town working to meet the needs of families with young children.
The Milton Community Resource Center (MCRC) Infant Food Bank recently expanded its reach to Acton.
This means local parents with infants and children under 36 months old who are struggling to make ends meet will be able to access supplies such as diapers, formula, baby food and cereal for free.
“We know food insecurity is a huge challenge for families, but the hardest part about families with infants and toddlers accessing (traditional) food banks is that they only get what happens to be there. ,” said Early Years Director Jessica Rankin. MCRC Child and Family Services.
“What's different about us is that we buy things (with donations), so when families come over, they know they're going to get the formula they need, they're going to get baby food, they're going to get diapers. . This is truly unique and very important.”
This initiative is a partnership with the Halton Hills Public Library Acton Branch. This is where infant food bank facilitators meet with her family on Tuesday mornings to schedule intake appointments and provide monthly supplies.
“This is not only a connection for families to get food and infant supplies, but also an opportunity to connect with food bank facilitators who can recommend other programs,” Rankin said.
“This is another resource for families when they have questions and a warm welcome when they come to pick up their belongings.”
With the infant food bank well established and thriving in Milton, MCRC felt it was the perfect time to reach out and support other communities with this program.
Rankin said through conversations with families, she learned Acton didn't have a lot of specialized support for infants and children under 3.
“This is a small community, but the needs are high,” she noted.
Acton parents can now book admissions through the MCRC website. Once set up, you can order monthly supplies and schedule a pick-up time at your local library.