WVU School of Nursing, WVU Extension support Mercer County baby pantry

To help support families in need during the holidays and the winter season, the WVU School of Nursing and WVU Extension hosted donation drives for Noah’s Ark Baby Pantry in McDowell County.

Specifically, the WVU School of Nursing collected nearly 300 pairs of socks during their donation drive. WVU Extension focused their collection efforts on diapers for the families in need.

“Helping our families in the rural reaches of the state, especially in the coalfields, is near and dear to my heart,” said Dr. Angel Smothers, WVU School of Nursing Associate Dean for Community Engagement.

Supported by UniCare, Noah’s Ark Baby Pantry offers families in need an opportunity to register for diapers, wipes, formula, clothes, larger items like strollers or cribs, as well as education and resources. Hundreds of individuals have been served since the organization formed in 2021.

While UniCare covers the bulk of needed supplies, donations are always helpful to fill the gaps. Annetta Tiller, a UniCare employee and one of the founders of the baby pantry, said the need is greatest at the end of the year and through the winter months. A community baby shower is also hosted annually, where moms-to-be can receive a host of gifts to get them started with their new baby.

Anyone interested in learning more or making a donation is asked to contact Annetta Tiller at annetta.tiller@anthem.com.

-WVU-

CONTACT: Wendy Holdren
Director of Communications and Marketing
WVU School of Nursing
304-581-1772; wendy.holdren@hsc.wvu.edu