AuPairCare support local women, families
AuPairCare regional director Emily Long of Farragut urged the public, to “join us as we partner with Helping Mamas Knoxville (Monday, Aug. 18, at Helping Mamas, 10908 McBride Lane) to volunteer your time, donate essential items or do both as we work to support thousands of local women and families.
“(AuPairCare) is a cultural exchange program, where au pairs come over (to the United States), they live with host families in our area (and provide childcare to those host families),” Long explained.
As a host family, “we provide room and board and a weekly stipend, and (the exchange au pair) provides childcare,” she said. “We recruit from 43 different countries. We’ve had au pairs from Chile, Brazil, South Africa, Germany, France.
“They come on visa … they are all here legally,” Long added. “We go through a matching process. You interview the different au pairs you want to welcome to your home.
“They can provide up to 45 hours of childcare while they’re getting to experience America,” she said.
“Exchange Day is a worldwide celebration of the power of international exchange and people-to-people diplomacy,” Long said. “Originally launched in 2014, this special day highlights the impact of global connection and community support.
“Here in Knoxville, AuPairCare is celebrating Exchange day by giving back — together,” she added. “Here’s how you can be a part of the impact. Volunteer with us. Help stuff care bags for moms and babies in our community.”
Helping Mamas is looking for diapers of all sizes; baby wipes; feminine napkins and other products; new and gently used baby and toddler clothing; and baby gear, such as swaddles, bottles and carriers.
“Since 2018, Helping Mamas Knoxville has served over 25,000 women and their families across East Tennessee through our 70-plus partner organizations and mobile distribution program,” Long said. “Every diaper, every bag packed and every hour volunteered brings relief and dignity to families in need.
“This is a hands-on opportunity to directly serve families and make a real difference,” she added. “ In order to volunteer, please create an account at https//volunteeretn.galaxydigital.com/user/register/ and sign a waiver.”
