Fundraiser Set for Group That Helps Families of Premature Babies

Lily Driscoll of Lily’s Hope, with her brother Aidan | Submitted

A Pennsylvania-based charity that offers families of premature babies with newborn supplies is branching out to Maryland with a fundraiser.

The Lily’s Hope Foundation will have a walk at Bohrer Park starting at 10:30 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 5.

The organization grew out of the Driscoll family’s unexpected needs when their daughter, Lilian Hope, was born seven weeks premature. She weighed 2 pounds 12 ounces and was only 15 inches long. (She’s now 10.)

The Driscolls started their nonprofit to supply Packages of Hope to families of pre-maturely born infants. The packages, containing specific needs of the family, can include clothing for premies, preemie diapers and car seats.

“Almost by definition, [the families] are unprepared,” said Nathan Carrick, a Chevy Chase resident who’s helping to organize the fundraiser.

Ordinarily, Lily’s Hope partners with hospitals, hearing of potential families in need through hospital staff. The organization hasn’t formally partnered with a Maryland hospital yet, Carrick said.

“The idea behind this fundraiser to buy a little bit of inventory and partner with hospital,” he said. “To be honest, it doesn’t take a lot of funds to create a care package. Every person who signs up can make a significant difference.”

The organization has scheduled an “after party” at Mellow Mushroom in Rockville. The restaurant has offered 10 percent of its proceeds to Lily’s Hope.

About Staff Writer

View all posts by Staff Writer