Helping those in need can be a rewarding experience for volunteers who serve. That is the case for Lexington resident Jennifer Coen, who has been helping others for several years. In that effort, Coen has recently been named director of Lexington’s Baby Grace program.

Lexington Baby Grace is a local nonprofit organization at the Lexington United Methodist Church that helps provide diapers, wipes and gently used clothing to those in the Lexington R-V School District who need assistance with these items. The group takes donations of gently used clothing size newborn to size 4 kids and takes shoes for this size range. They accept unopened and non-expired infant baby formula of all types and kinds. The program also accepts opened and/or new packages of diapers, baby and Children hygiene items such as creams, soaps and lotions.

“Monetary donations are always welcome, and we appreciate them,” said Coen. “This gives us the ability to purchase diapers and wipes for our families who need assistance.”

Baby Grace serves the Lexington R-V School District, primarily the Lexington and Dover areas.

“I started this program in 2015,” added Coen. “Since then, we have grown!”

Coen has worked and assisted with this program for nearly fifteen years. She has previously helped direct the Higginsville Baby Grace program prior to starting the one in Lexington. She served as a Higginsville Baby Grace board member, helping with their events and classes. She also assisted their director with their open houses and diaper days.

Monetary contributions can be made at the Lexington United Methodist Church. They also have an option to donate online. Online donations can be made under the “donate tab” at lexmoumc.org. Please contact Coen prior to scheduling a drop off in person. She can be reached at 660232-4190. The current need is specific diaper sizes -sizes 2, 3, 6 & 7 and baby wipes.

Baby Grace also loves partnerships. Previously they have partnered with community groups and other local businesses to help raise funds and get the items needed to help keep diapers and wipes fully stocked.

“The need for diapers in our community is real,” said Coen. “Safety-net programs like WIC or SNAP do not cover diapers.”

Recent statistics have shown low to middle income households struggle to provide enough diapers and wipes per day.

An infant uses an average of 6-10 diapers per day. The lack of access to diapers has a direct link to adverse health outcomes for infants and toddlers. Diaper need is linked to increased UTIs, and severe diaper rash in these infants and toddlers.

The emotional and mental toll of caregivers who face this struggle is also alarming. Many caregivers report feelings of helplessness, additional anxiety, stress and even daycare struggles as diapers are required to be provided by the caregivers for most daycares. Baby Grace has access to referrals for other needs and services as well. They can assist with GED/PASS, WIC & SNAP enrollment, housing, substance abuse and domestic violence. They have working relationships with many organizations locally. Lexington Baby Grace wants to end diaper needs in the community. Not only are they here for the families and children, but also the church family is here too. All Baby Grace families are welcome at church and church events.

The program is open the first Tuesday of each month, from 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm and the fourth Saturday from 9:30 am to 10:30 am.