OCTOBER UPDATES: An Exciting Time of Growth and Development

As we embrace the fall season, Compliments of Caroline has made significant strides in our mission to support children in East Texas. So far, October has been an exciting time of growth and development, and we’re thrilled to share some of our recent updates with you!

1. FORMATION OF OUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS

We are excited to announce that Compliments of Caroline has officially established its Board of Directors! This dedicated team of community leaders, professionals, and advocates shares our passion for helping children. With their support, we’re taking steps to build a strong foundation for future success and impact.

One such Board Member is Melanie Miller, who has worked at Christus Health Systems for 21 years and is now the clinical director of Mother/Baby and Lactation. "Compliments of Caroline has really spoken to me because I have had 4 miscarriages, the most recent was a son, Carter, in 2008. He was stillborn at 19 weeks. So, I think what you are doing to remember Caroline is awesome," said Melanie Miller, Melanie Miller, BSN RNC-MNN.

Our board members bring diverse expertise to the table, and together, we are working on strategic initiatives to expand our reach and deepen our involvement in the community. We are incredibly grateful for their commitment to our mission and look forward to the collaborative journey ahead.

2. 501(c)(3) STATUS PENDING

In another exciting development, we are in the process of acquiring 501(c)(3) status. This is a huge step toward achieving our goal of becoming a fully recognized nonprofit organization. Once approved, this status will allow us to provide tax-exempt donations, seek more funding opportunities, and further engage with individuals and organizations who share our vision. We’re eager to make this official and continue our work with even more resources behind us.

3. PARTNER OUTREACH AND AWARENESS EFFORTS

Over the past month, we’ve ramped up our partner outreach and awareness efforts. Through partnerships with organizations like the Miracle Network of Christus Trinity Mother Frances and the Mother's Milk Bank of North Texas, we’ve been able to connect with more families and children in need. We’ve distributed essential supplies and started building a network of supporters committed to making a difference. We have also created blogs, flyers, and social media content to connect with individuals who are interested in making a difference

Our long-term goal is to ensure that all East Texas children have access to what they need, starting with donor milk for preemies and infants. Thanks to your generosity and involvement, we’re making progress every day.

4. IMPACT

From October 01, 2024, to October 16, 2024, we have served 20 families through our Donor Milk to Go Grant. Pictured above are our insulated bags that hold donor milk. Our grant recipients can feed their babies immediately or take their DONOR MILK TO GO. Either way, this milk helps babies grow strong and healthy and takes some of the burden off of new moms.

Caroline Pillsbury from Christus Trinity Mother Frances said, "Families are so thrilled when they learn about the resource of Compliments of Caroline milk to go. It's been a huge blessing already. We even had a mother leave our free support group to come get her DMTG order, thanks to Compliments of Caroline. That was critical to assisting her with her baby's excessive weight loss. Thanks to all for your support!"

We will continue to post updates about the impact of your generosity, so be sure to follow us on social media for daily updates. Your support means the world to us, and together, we can create a brighter future for East Texas children.

5. THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT

Lastly, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has supported Compliments of Caroline. Whether purchasing a fundraiser t-shirt, sharing our social media posts, or spreading the word about our cause, you’ve helped us reach new heights. We couldn’t do this without you, and we are excited about what the future holds.

Thank you for standing with us as we continue our mission to raise awareness and meet the needs of East Texas while honoring the legacy of our little ones in heaven, like Caroline.