Did you know Smart Start is more than a funder of child-serving agencies across Mecklenburg County? We are a collaborator, leader, and convener in the early childhood space. Our team, together with the agencies we fund, ensure that children turn five ready to thrive.

We understand that authentic leadership encourages effective partnerships and collaborations. Continue reading to learn more about our leading initiatives and how you can help support our mission. Together we can make sure families with young children age 0-5 receive the support and connections to resources that they need to succeed.
We are proud to announce our partnership with the Junior League of Charlotte (JLC) for this year’s Done in a Day (DIAD) project. The JLC’s signature DIAD project partners with local nonprofits to help execute community initiatives that have a significant impact in Mecklenburg County.

This year the DIAD goal is to provide diapers to local families with young children through Bright Blessings, a nonprofit organization that serves babies and children living in homeless shelters, transitional housing facilities, domestic violence programs, and those receiving supportive services through qualified community agencies.

Data shows one in three U.S. families could not afford diapers even before the coronavirus outbreak. Therefore, powered by this partnership, the goal of JLC and SSMC is to collect 200 boxes of diapers.

Jennifer Stamp, Chief Strategy Officer of Smart Start of Mecklenburg County explains, “Very often, families are forced to choose between buying food and diapers.”

By making a gift through our Amazon Wish List throughout the duration of the DIAD diaper drive - now through the end of 2021 - you can supply local families with 200 boxes of diapers. Diapers will ship directly to Bright Blessing’s doorsteps so you know exactly where your donation is going.
Please note you must be logged in to your Amazon account to shop the wish list. Upon checking out, select “Bright Blessings” as the delivery address:

Bright Blessings
1150 Crews Rd. Suite C
Matthews, NC 28105
Tune in as Jake House, CEO is interviewed by Christian Noguera at Spectrum News. Together they discuss the recent innovative shift of Smart Start's funded program, Guiding Parents to Services. The program now works with families using the services provided by the Children’s Developmental Services Agency as they transition to CMS.
We mobilize resources, forge partnerships, and support families to improve early childhood health, education, and development - all to help ensure children are prepared for kindergarten.

Click the links to learn more about our funded programs within our four areas of focus for children ages birth to five.
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