Baby supplies shipping off to northern families in need
Early child care essentials like diapers, formula, breast pumps and toys are on their way to remote northern communities.
These supplies will be donated to families for free through the Mikinakoos Children’s Fund.
The non-profit smashed their donation goal, raising over $26,000 through their Giving Tuesday Infant Campaign. This success allows them to make it a staple program and continue donations in 2026 and 2027.
“When you have a newborn, the last thing you want to worry about is how you’re going to be able to afford diapers, especially in a community where sometimes supplies just aren’t available,” said Database Manager Will Scholz. “So it provides a lot of security to families who are facing a lot of insecurity, frankly.”
There have been four communities serviced so far: Sachigo Lake First Nation, Bearskin Lake First Nation, Keewaywin First Nation, and Kingfisher Lake First Nation.
“Different supplies that you and I would typically just take for granted being able to run out to the store to grab, are just not available in northern communities,” Executive Director Stephanie Paxton said. “Or if they are available, the cost is so incredibly inflated by three, sometimes four times the cost of what we pay here.”
The Mikinakoos Children’s Fund works with shipping partners like Bearson Airlines and Northstar Air to deliver these goods. These airlines sometimes offer discounted or completely free shipping out of charity.
“We’re really working to help support families and new parents in securing the best first start for their little babies in the north,” Paxton said. “Our mission is to make sure that every child has the best opportunity to thrive and survive in their home communities.”
To donate to the Mikinakoos Children’s Fund, visit their website.
“A huge thank you to the community,” Scholz said. “As a smaller non-profit, community support is always really essential for us meeting our goals and being able to support families in need.”
