Public Health opens Village Closet

GRINNELL –– The Village Closet, hosted by UnityPoint Health-Grinnell Public Health, is now open to provide essential items to community members.

The Village Closet is designed to support expectant mothers, caregivers, grandparents and foster parents in need throughout their pregnancy and the first year of a child’s life.

What items are available depends on donations. The closet offers a wide range of free items including car seats, baby clothes, swings, maternity clothes, bottles, diapers, breastfeeding items and toys.

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“We are thrilled to launch the Village Closet as a way to support caregivers in our communities,” says Stephanie Crawford, public health nurse.

“By providing essential items, we hope to alleviate some of the financial stress associated with having a new baby.”

To access the Village Closet, schedule an appointment by emailing dm_village_closet@unitypoint.org or calling 641-236-2385, option 3.

A public health nurse will return the phone or email message within three to five business days with follow up questions to understand the caregiver’s specific needs and to set up an appointment.

The Village Closet is accepting donations of new or like-new items. Items can be dropped off at Public Health between 9 a.m. and noon the first Monday of each month.

This allows a team member to inspect each item and ensure it is safe and clean for the next family.

“We believe that every mother, caregiver or parent deserves to have the essentials they need to support their child,” says Sadie Hegel, public health nurse.

“The Village Closet is a valuable community resource that will help to improve the lives of families in our area and bring peace of mind to caregivers.”

For more information or to schedule a drop off, call public health at 641-236-2385.