Layettes

Each chapter in the National Christ Child Society has a Layette Program. This was the first service project undertaken by our chapter and Joan Bauer was appointed to be the first Chairman of the Purchasing Committee. The project has been in existence since 1957 and involves purchasing, packaging, and distribution of layettes to mothers of infants as determined by the Social Services department of area hospitals.

Originally items were handmade for the layettes such as gowns and knitted booties. The first four layettes were delivered to St. Thomas Hospital in December 1957. In the early days of the project the layettes were also delivered directly to the homes from 1960 - 1972.

Sewing and knitting of layette items often took place at the end of meetings. By 1961, there were five subcommittees and chairmen: telephone, purchasing, sewing, knitting, and distribution. Due to increased demand, purchased items started to be used by 1962. By 1963 layettes were being distributed to all three Akron hospitals and that continues today along with the social service agencies. In 1994 disposable diapers were added replacing the cloth diapers. The current layette bag includes diapers, blankets, onesies, socks, bibs, washcloths, bottles, wipes, burp cloths, a sweater set and a book. The project continues in 2007 with Sally Olszewski and Laura Miller-Hannah as co-chairs.