The Baby Closet
The Good Shepherd Baby Closet Ministry has been in operation since 2009, and is facilitated by a number of dedicated volunteers and a committee of our Episcopal Church Women’s Guild.
Its mission is to support new and expecting mothers in Allegan County with the materials needed to help raise their newborns by offering Layettes to those in need; and in doing so, hopefully providing a good start to our youth and relieving some worry to new mothers in the area.
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At present, the Baby Closet Ministry supplies Mothers with Layettes, which include: Clothing, Diapers & Wipes, Blankets, Toiletries, a Toy, Book, and a Backpack to carry your everyday baby supplies. We also include a number of other items and can often get you set up with a Pack-and-Play and a Carseat. We do not however offer financial assistance in addition to these items, we apologize for the inconvenience.
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We are often able to supply a limited quantity of diapers with your layette to get you started. For further assistance with diapering, we partner with the St. Stephen’s Diaper Bank in Plainwell, they can be contacted here.
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Yes! We are always happy to take donations towards this ministry; however, we can not accept used baby items such as bottles, toys, bedding, clothes, car seats, and some cribs due to legal restrictions. Donations of baby blankets, new clothing or other items (with the tags still on), and financial contributions are always graciously accepted. If you would like to make a donation to this ministry please contact the office. Used clothing and bedding is accepted by the Community Closet Thurs.-Saturday.
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If you are in need of a layette, whether this is your first or third child, or you are having one baby or quads we will try our best to assist! To contact us, please leave a message via the form below with your name, number or email, the gender of your baby (if you know) and when you are expecting; and we will get back to you ASAP. Pick-Ups and Drop-Offs of Layettes are by appointment only, and can be arranged on most any day.
Our Baby Closet Leaders at the Allegan Volunteer FairBaby Closet Inquiry Form
If you need other community resources, such as maternity clothing, our Community Closet may be able to help. We also recognize that motherhood is about more than meeting physical needs. If you would appreciate pastoral care, prayer, or simply someone to talk with as you navigate the journey of motherhood, please let us know here. We would be glad to help connect you with someone who can offer support.