Mary’s Helping Hands Iowa is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting families with young children by providing essential items during the first two years of a child’s life. The mission is simple but powerful: to offer hope, love, and support to expecting mothers, fathers, and caregivers in need of assistance with their child’s basic needs. In 2021, Mary’s Helping Hands served 67 clients in its first year. Since then, the organization has experienced tremendous growth, expanding both its reach and impact within the community. By the end of fiscal year 2025, Mary’s Helping Hands served 6,941 clients and distributed more than 197,000 essential items to families who need them most.
Families who apply for assistance receive maternity clothing, as well as clothing for children from newborn through 2T. In addition, families can access monthly hygiene packs that include essential items such as diapers, wipes, formula, and nursing supplies—resources that can make a meaningful difference for those navigating financial challenges. The goal is to reduce stress for caregivers so they can focus on what matters most: caring for their children.
Mary’s Helping Hands is deeply committed to serving all families with dignity and respect, with no discrimination based on race, color, religion, gender, gender expression, age, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status. They strive to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone served, as well as for staff, volunteers, and community partners. Through compassion, community support, and a growing network of partners, Mary’s Helping Hands continues to meet tangible needs while offering encouragement and hope to families across Iowa.
DMIEC donations will directly support an urgent need for families: diapers and wipes. These essential items are not covered by most assistance programs, yet are critical to a child’s health and hygiene. Each month, roughly a 10-day supply of diapers and wipes is provided per child. Babies can go through 6–10 diapers per day, making the cost a significant burden for many families. Without enough diapers, caregivers may have to stretch supplies, which can lead to health issues like diaper rash or infections. DMIEC’s gift ensures this basic need can be met, keeping children clean, dry, and healthy. Your support has a direct, immediate impact— helping families feel supported during a challenging time.
For more information on this organization, visit https://www.maryshelpinghandsiowa.org.
Checks can be made payable either to “DMIEC” with “First Sunday” in the memo line or to “Mary’s Helping Hands Iowa” with “DMIEC” in the memo line. Checks should be placed in the April 26th Collection Basket or mailed to: DMIEC, P.O. Box 30065, Des Moines, IA 50310.
To be included in the amount DMIEC sends to the organization First Sunday checks must be received by DMIEC by April 25th; if you elect to contribute to the First Sunday recipient after that date, please mail your check (made payable to the organization with “DMIEC” in the memo line) directly to Mary’s Helping Hands Iowa, 4950 Pleasant St., Suite B, West Des Moines, IA 50266, and, if comfortable, let DMIEC’s Social Justice Committee Chair Kathy Eastman know the amount to assist in recording our community’s giving.
