Day 9: The 30-Day Giving Challenge

Week 2 of The 30-Day Giving Challenge is officially underway! I have enjoyed reading Week 1 recaps on several blogs. If you wrote one, feel free to share below in comments.

I do want to stress that this is not about “bragging” on our good deeds, but I do find it truly inspiring to read about the ways others are participating. Many folks are jumping in late, which is totally fine!

One thing I noticed is that in order to give every day, it helps if you are intentional. Pray and seek those opportunities, and write down ideas for giving each day, much like a menu plan.

I am thrilled to feature a wonderful cause today which is actually a project started by a fellow blogger and sister in Christ. Quatro Mama is a mother to quadruplet boys.

She is using her voice in the blogosphere to assist families who are experiencing the NICU.

The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit is a frightening, uncertain, and emotional experience. Jen (aka Quatro Mama) experienced the NICU first hand when her quadruplets were born 2 months early.  Jen and her husband, Brad, started a NICU Survival Kit Project to encourage other families facing the unknowns and challenges of a premature birth by providing a kit complete with a preemie sized blanket, disposable camera, journal, a story book, and other personalized items.

It’s a way for them to give back to something very near to their hearts.  They encourage others to make this a community effort by donating homemade blankets, name cards, or other ingredients for the kits with an attached message to the family.  You can find out more by contacting Jen at NICUKits@4tunate.net or by clicking on the NICU Survival Kit tab on their blog.

Wanna get involved? Here are some of their current needs:

~ We are in need of a good container/bag/box to put all the goodies in.  Currently I’ve been dressing up a regular large gift bag, which does the trick, but I have visions of a custom box or reusable bag with a nice label on it. Ideas?  Suggestions?

~ We are in need of crotcheters and knitters for preemie blankets.  Think “doll blanket” size.  Most of the blankets that I’ve received have been in the 20×20 range…a little longer is fine.  I have a stock pile of about 20 blankets, but we are assembling quite a few lately and they are going quickly.

~ Ongoing Items in Need:  Gum, Snacks, Hand Lotion, Journals, Disposable Cameras, Chapstick.  Keep your eyes peeled for discounts and sales and tell us about them!

I know you couponers out there are so resourceful! Perhaps you are a knitter, too (I am not). This is a fabulous way to help families in need of a little encouragement.

I also want to mention the upcoming Bloggers Unite event, Fight for Preemies. On November 17th, you can blog for a baby you love and help others. Will you join the fight?