The Baby Blessing Box, a project of Ray of Hope Crisis and Resource Services of San Joaquin County, kicked off not too long ago.

These are the boxed donations containing many of the basic needs for children (ages 0 to 6 months) recently discharged from the hospital.

Linda Faulkner and Kathy Moreno were among those who stepped up for the cause.

According to Ray of Hope Executive Director Laura Saunders, Moreno collected boxes at her work to give to Faulkner. She and her husband, Rob, delivered Baby Blessing Boxes to the facility on a monthly basis.

They wanted to make sure that babies born into homelessness, poverty or some type of risk received the basic needs to begin their lives.

“Linda explained to Kathy that babies born in such circumstances are usually without a crib or bed to go home to, putting them at a greater risk and disadvantage,” Saunders said.

Moreno of First American Title Company took it from there, calling on her team while speaking to Jamie Corcoran, Brennon Mahon, Karen Hunton, and Irene Weiner on a request to take action.

The First American Title Company team did just that, purchasing 11 new pack and play sets for babies to have a bed and eventually safe place to play.

“It is this kind of love for another person’s child that allows us to carry on with the mission to provide a ray of hope to children in true need of life’s basic essentials such as a safe place to lay their little heads – to say we are grateful is an understatement,” Saunders recently said.

Those interested in take part in Baby Blessing Box can use anything from an Avon or file box. Items can include diapers, receiving blankets, t-shirts, pajamas, socks, and hygiene products.

Donations – Baby Blessing Boxes and other items – can be dropped off at the Ray of Hope office at 113 W. Yosemite Ave., on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., or by appointment.

Call 209.597.0574 for more information.