Supporting new lives
Class project provides help and hope for newborns in need

The economic downturn has impacted many families in Hampton Roads. Recognizing the needs, TCC students on the Virginia Beach Campus rallied to help some of the region’s newest citizens.

With more than 2,660 babies born into poverty and 4,400 others born to single mothers daily, TCC students connected with the Newborns in Need network to fill the gap and make life comfortable for babies in need.  

“Everyone needs a chance, and these are the tiniest of babies facing harsh realities,” said Chana Williams, the group leader. “I see this as an extension of my training and a way to ensure a healthy start for babies in need.”

The effort started as a community service competency project within the Medical Assistant program, and quickly captured the hearts of group members Annabelle Hubbs, Corey Patillo, Alice Soza, Melissa Wilson and Williams.

The group organized a campus-wide baby shower of sorts, collecting diapers, wipes, blankets, powders, washes and other needed supplies for the local Newborns in Need organization, which has sister agencies nationwide (http://www.newbornsinneed.org/). When the donations were delivered, they filled many vehicles top to bottom.

The project continues with student leaders pledging to collect more baby items for the agency.