Little Tummies, Big Support

For families already stretching every dollar, running out of infant formula can quickly become an urgent and stressful situation. Through a NOW Grant, the Children & Family Resource Center (CFRC) is helping meet that immediate need through its Full Tum, Dry Bum Diaper and Formula Bank. Full Tum, Dry Bum currently serves more than 350 families each month. The program helps ease the financial pressure families face while making sure babies have access to the basic supplies, they need to be healthy and cared for.

The grant will help CFRC purchase infant formula and maintain a reliable supply for Henderson County families when they need it most. Whenever possible, caregivers receive the specific formula their baby needs, including specialty formulas for infants with medical or dietary needs.

But the support doesn’t stop with a can of formula. CFRC also connects families with resources that can provide longer-term stability, including WIC, pediatric care, parenting education, mental health navigation, school readiness support, developmental screenings, and other family support services. Together, these resources help families meet an immediate need while connecting them with support for the months and years ahead.

“Diapers and formula are not optional expenses for families with babies, but for many parents, the cost can be overwhelming,” said Emily Balcken, Executive Director of Children & Family Resource Center. “We are so grateful to WNC Bridge Foundation for helping us make sure families don’t have to choose between feeding their babies, buying diapers, and paying for other basic household needs.”