Baby supply drive to benefit Metropolitan Ministries
TAMPA (FOX 13) - Cassandra Mendoza is putting the focus on her most important role. She's a mother to 1-month-old Eli and his 8-year-old brother.
"It's all about them," said Mendoza.
Just before she gave birth, the bottom fell out. Mendoza lost her job.
"Everything you can possibly imagine happened and I was like, I have nothing else here," said Mendoza.
The single mom was pregnant and very worried. "I have a newborn coming, I don't have a job, I don't have a place. How is this going to work out?”
She knew how costly baby supplies can be. But thanks to community donations, she's able to take care of Eli at her temporary home at Tampa's Metropolitan Ministries.
"I'm actually very grateful that he has everything that he needs and it happened literally in the nick of time," she continued.
She is getting on track and plans to be back in the workforce soon. She hopes to pay it forward one day.
"It's a blessing. When I'm back on my feet, I would love to donate and help," said Mendoza.
YOU CAN HELP
On Friday, May 11, FOX 13 is teaming up with Metropolitan Ministries for a baby supply drive at the FOX 13 studios from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Viewers can bring their donations to 3213 W. Kennedy Boulevard in Tampa. The Metropolitan Ministries donation truck will be in the back of the building on North A Street.
Here is a list of the most needed items:
-Diapers -- specifically sizes 4, 5 and 6
-Pull-Ups -- specifically sizes 2T, 3T, 4T and 5T
-Baby wipes
-Baby blankets
-Bottles
-Bottle brushes
-Bottle warmers
-Crib sheets
-Baby formula
-Baby food
You can also donate online at metromin.org.