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DEL.ICIO.USAngels for newborns
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
I just learned a new word.
“Layette.”
That’s a complete outfit for a newborn baby - clothes, bedding and accessories. I found out what it meant while hanging out with some volunteers for Tiny Stitches Inc. The Gwinnett-based nonprofit sews, knits or crochets baby clothes and burial ensembles. It gives them to needy newborns and preemies in North Georgia hospitals like Gwinnett Medical Center and Union General in Blairsville.
Wednesday was Tiny Stitches’ “pre-packaging” day. The Badie Tour was invited to witness the chaotic, charming scene. It takes place at “Your Extra Attic,” a storage facility in Sugar Hill. The nonprofit rents space there.
A dozen or so women stuffed plastic bags with clothes. Everything from burp cloths and socks to creepers and sleepers. Thirty-five items for each layette tote. All items are hand-crafted. All are donated anonymously to between 55 and 60 birth moms each month.
“If the mother knew it was from Tiny Stitches, she may feel beholden to us,” says Buford’s Gloria Bantekas, a founding member. “We want the mother to have some self-respect. I can’t imagine having a baby and not having any clothing for her.”
Tiny Stitches was founded in February 1996 by Bantekas and four other Gwinnett women. The local group had belonged to the national charity of the same name, but disliked sending money to headquarters. So it became an independent charity.
Today the Gwinnett outfit has a network of more than 200 volunteers. No one gets paid. Money that’s donated or raised pays for fabrics, trim, yarn, patterns and warehouse rent. (The charity recently received its largest donation ever - $15,000 from Jackson EMC.)
In the warehouse Wednesday, the women scurry in cramped quarters. They’re angels.
“Let me show you the beautiful work that’s been done,” says Janet Hornsby of Flowery Branch.
“Look at this.” She holds up a multi-colored T-shirt. “Doesn’t it light your eyes up?”
Hornsby, a volunteer for two years, says she’s found her calling.
“I do it to do something for the community,” she says. “Just to feel like my life is worthwhile, more or less. This is it after all these years.”
Tiny Stitches has its critics.
“Some people say we’re helping illegal immigrants,” Bantekas says. “We’re not a Christian organization, and that bothers some people. We’re simply people who care. Some people say there’s no poverty. Hey, I’ve seen poverty.”
The charity started pre-packaging the clothes after a hospital suffered water damage. The clothes had to be washed before they could be distributed. Hospital social workers determine who gets the layettes.
Georgia Lucas, an at-large board member, told me hospital personnel rejoice when volunteers make deliveries.
“When they see us coming,” she told me, “they say, ‘Here come our angels.’ “
For more information, visit www.tinystitches.org.
Rick Badie’s column appears on Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays. Contact him at 770-263-3875 or e-mail: rbadie@ajc.com.
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By LT5000
January 30, 2008 10:38 PM | Link to this
I like how Rick uses the term “birth mothers” instead of something like “parents of the newborn”. Tells me the problem right there.
Of course the handout doesn’t stop there. I’m sure I’ll be taking care of that child through WIC, housing subsidies, welfare……..
I’m sure plenty of Illegals, popping out Anchor Babies, will be taking advantage of this program. Only to bad mouth America dos segundos after getting their baby clothes packet.
LT5000
By Bruce Wicox
January 31, 2008 12:09 AM | Link to this
So Lt5000 tell us, just does an innocent baby and a caring group of volunteers have to do with your inane comment? What’s the plan LT, bring out the rest of the racist yahoo’s and wreck another column with the usual drool?
It’s always great to see a group of volunteers that still care and offer up their services to help the less fortunate without asking any questions. It is an example to us all to remember and follow.
By Michael H. Smith
January 31, 2008 3:29 AM | Link to this
The wife and I will continue to give to our charities. I’m sure a few deadbeats, illegal aliens, probably a bunch of addicts with no intentions of getting sober, a few unwed moms and the occasional professional beggar or two will reap some benefit at our expense, which is why we are very careful in selecting the charities we support. So, if you are one of those people who believes that having a heart does not mean you have to forfeit your brain, then you are probably a mean old conservative - but if you are one of those people who believes in forfeiting both, then you are probably just a mean old person.
By Katie
January 31, 2008 6:34 AM | Link to this
In part I agree with LT5000. It’s a shame when a few bad apples ruin it for the bunch. Seeing all these illegals and their babies has ruined it for me. They don’t deserve to be taken care of by my donations or tax dollars, they haven’t put into the system, why should they be able to withdraw from it?
By Julie
January 31, 2008 8:34 AM | Link to this
Let’s focus on who they are helping. The BABIES. Newborns have need of clothing regardless of the status of the parents. These wonderful ladies are trying to clothe the babies, nothing more.
By Joe
January 31, 2008 8:54 AM | Link to this
Great article. Thanks for the information about this org. Everyone needs to be reminded every now and then that there are people in need and we can help
By Jill
January 31, 2008 8:56 AM | Link to this
THINK OF THE BABIES!!! So what if a few illegal immigrants benefit. There are many who benefit who are neither illegal immigrants nor dead-beats. Hard times can fall upon anyone! There but by the grace of God go I!!! Bless these ladies and what they are doing!
By Capt
January 31, 2008 9:36 AM | Link to this
Now don’t get me wrong…I am for sending all illegal invaders back across which ever border they came from. However, according to US law any person born in the US is a citizen of the US…therefore these babies are US citizens. Unfortunately most of these people mistake kindness for weakness…but we should never let ANY child suffer.
By jes8
January 31, 2008 9:38 AM | Link to this
My mother is a volunteer for this organization. She knits blankets for the babies and it gives her great joy. It makes her feel she is doing her part. I don’t care who the mother is or where she came from, the baby deserves to have a blanket made with love to be covered with. THAT is the point of this organization.
By LT supporter
January 31, 2008 9:43 AM | Link to this
The point is is that they shouldn’t be breeding in our country when they came here illegally. I disagree with American policy that any baby born here automatically is a US citizen, my vote will assure my opinion. Our country is in a major dilema, monitarily, and these illegal aliens, despite US policy, are a complete drain on our system. They come here and breed as fast as possible so that the US can’t kick them out. I don’t feel bad for the babies, let’s send them back to Mexico (or where ever else) and let their countries care for them.
By LT supporter
January 31, 2008 9:45 AM | Link to this
The point is is that they shouldn’t be breeding in our country when they came here illegally. I disagree with American policy that any baby born here automatically is a US citizen, my vote will assure my opinion. Our country is in a major dilema, monitarily, and these illegal aliens, despite US policy, are a complete drain on our system. They come here and breed as fast as possible so that the US can’t kick them out. I don’t feel bad for the babies, let’s send them back to Mexico (or where ever else) and let their countries care for them.
By God's Gift
January 31, 2008 9:45 AM | Link to this
Everyone has a valid point, but keep in mind we are ALL human. No one has the choice to choose who they are born to or what they are born into. You grow older and determine you have to make the best of your life. We are speaking of innocent children, no they may not be so innocent, but they children had no say so. Love and love should be given unto you!
By jes8
January 31, 2008 9:55 AM | Link to this
First of all, this is not an immigration board.
Second of all, this organization donates to HOSPITALS. The social workers decide who to give the items to. I think you all need to remember that there are plenty of babies born in poverty to parents who are as American as you and I. Is it responsible for people to have babies when they can’t feed themselves? No. But again, that is a discussion for a different board. This is a CHARITY for innocent BABIES. Have a heart people! Remember the whole story about judging and casting the first stone, and all that?
By Michael H. Smith
January 31, 2008 10:04 AM | Link to this
Alright, enough! This is not the time or blog to debate Illegal Immigration. Don’t hurt our cause by continuing in this counter productive attack, PLEASE? If you don’t like this charity then find one you do approve of, there is plenty of poverty to go around for everyone to get in on a piece of the action.
Perhaps one day we will get down to business and stop putting band-aides on hemorrhages. Till then, there is nothing wrong in easing someone’s pain.
By LT5000
January 31, 2008 11:30 AM | Link to this
My point really wasn’t about immigration, but Badie did bring it up in the article.
My point is that their is no mention of father’s in this whole story. Why is the care for these children left in someone else’s hands?
Is it because the birth mother can’t rely on Daddy for child support? She doesn’t know who Daddy is? Who cares right? My tax dollars will take care of it.
For all you people screaming “It’s about the babies”. What kind of life are these children going to have with a deadbeat Dad they barely see if at all?
Yep, they’ll be the knocked up 15 year old hispanic girl picking up some free baby clothes someday, on their way to Kroger to use WIC to feed the baby. Daddy won’t be around.
The point is ladies, if you are too poor to raise a child without handouts, you probably shouldn’t be getting knocked up in the first place. Find a good man who will marry you and support you. We call that a FAMILY (Familia en espanol).
LT5000
By FedUp
January 31, 2008 12:19 PM | Link to this
If you can’t afford to fed, clothe, educate and house babies, you shouldn’t be having them. I think this should be considered child abuse, and the parents should be arrested, and the child given to a home who can support them. Does this sound callous? Which is worse…giving the baby a good home, or leaving it with parents who can’t take care of it?
By JJ
January 31, 2008 12:25 PM | Link to this
LTI will attempt to answer one of your questions……
My point is that their is no mention of father’s in this whole story. Why is the care for these children left in someone else’s hands? Because it so easy for a man to walk away from his responsibilities, especially his family. It is then up to the mother to a) try to hire an attorney to collect what the court has ordered to be paid; b) take the time off from the job to go meet with an attorney, then go to court. Meanwhile, the runaway dad is off playing, having a wonderful time, and the mom is left to struggle to raise THEIR child(ren). The kids are the ones who suffer. Dad’s gone, Mom is working two jobs to keep food on the table…therefore, who is watching the kids?
Is it because the birth mother can’t rely on Daddy for child support? No We can’t rely on daddy for child support. Ever tried to collect it? I have, the system really doesn’t care. I’m definately not a welfare mother, nor have I ever taken a hand out. However, our judicial systems makes it very difficult to collect child support. They just don’t have the time to deal with it…….I have not received one dime of support from my ex-husband, even though it is COURT ORDERED. But I’m one of the luckier single parents. I have a great life, a great job, and a very supportive family and friends. Had I known my ex was such a deadbeat, I would have never married him……and I have done a good job raising my child. She gets good grades, is respectful to others, and doesn’t really give me alot of grief.
Please do not construe these comments as complaining. I post alot on these blogs and most other posters know me. I don’t complain. I am “playing the hand I was dealt”. And I do it all because of my child!!!
By LT5000
January 31, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this
JJ,
I don’t believe your story for one minute. If your baby daddy wasn’t paying child support the court will automatically deduct it from his pay, tax returns and anything else. If he still doesn’t pay, he goes to jail.
Oh, yeah. You shouldn’t have gotten knocked up by that guy. Women need to make better choices.
LT5000
By Mark
January 31, 2008 2:03 PM | Link to this
Here’s an easy solution. You must prove that you are a legal immigrant before the baby’s birth, or the baby gets confiscated and deported to the nearest next of kin in the country in which the mother is a legal citizen of. Now knowing that the mother is an illigal immigrant, she is to be deported as well as soon as she’s able to. Then most of the daddies will follow in order to be with his family. Simple enough.
By JJ
January 31, 2008 2:56 PM | Link to this
LT I don’t care if you believe my story for one minute.
It p** me off to no end, that women get blamed for marrying the wrong man. God forbid we could point the finger at the man. Do you honestly think I would have married him and had his child if I knew he was such a dead beat? I mean come on. I’m an intelligent woman.
Women would make better choices if there were better men to choose from. It’s not always the woman’s fault. But god forbid you men would take any responsibility for the children you help create.
Men that run away from their children are the lowest scum on this earth.
By LT5000
January 31, 2008 3:52 PM | Link to this
JJ, Since you didn’t choose a good husband, maybe you should choose a good attorney. That’s the problem with life, you have to live with your choices.
From the GA DHR site.
*If a parent does not obey a support order, he or she may be found in contempt of court. A contempt action may be filed against the non-custodial parent who fails to make support payments or does not maintain the required medical insurance. *
*Non-custodial parents found in contempt of court may be fined, sentenced to jail or both. The judge may order the non-custodial parent who is unable to pay to enroll in the Fatherhood Program. *
In addition, the non-custodial parent is still obligated to pay the full amount of past-due support. The child support order may also be enforced through:
*Withholding child support from paychecks, unemployment or weekly worker’s compensation benefits. Intercepting federal and/or state income tax refunds. *
*Reporting parents owing $7,500 or more in child support payments to credit bureaus. *
*Suspending or revoking driver’s, professional or occupational licenses for failure to pay child support. Reviewing and changing child support orders periodically. Intercepting lottery winnings of more than $5,000. *
Filing contempt of court actions, which may result in a jail sentence if the non-custodial parent is found in contempt of court
*Filing liens to seize matched bank accounts, lump sum worker’s compensation settlements and real or personal property. *
Denying, suspending or revoking the passport of someone who owes more than $5,000 in child support.
Yes, ladies there is more you can do to your Baby Daddy than complain. Even though the stories do make good Lifetime movies. Starring Merideth Baxter Birney.
LT5000
By Reality Check
January 31, 2008 4:58 PM | Link to this
You people are ridiculous! Get a life and stop posting hate on this message board. This organization is trying to do something good and to give an innocent baby a small token of love that they otherwise would not likely receive in their situation. Take the hate somewhere else!
By bethie
January 31, 2008 6:54 PM | Link to this
The ladies who volunteer their time and those who offer donations to this organization are to be commended for their efforts regardless of the worthiness of the recipients. I agree the law should have been changed years ago granting automatic citizenship to children born of illegal immigrants, but that’s the current law of the land. Instead of griping about it on a newspaper board I urge those of you who have posted to write your legislators weekly with your concerns. It’s doubtful they will listen, but at least you tried.
“Tiny Stitches” volunteers offer a gift of basic human kindness to people less fortunate and for that they are doing the right thing.
By Katie
February 1, 2008 12:22 PM | Link to this
If you can’t afford to have children, don’t get pregnant. Keep you legs closed until you have a savings account and medical insurance. I’ll keep donating my money to those who need it in 3rd world countries.
By Charlie Brown
February 2, 2008 7:08 AM | Link to this
Good Grief!!!
Red or Yellow, Black or White, They are PRECIOUS in his site……….