The Carolyn Homes Team is passionate about giving back, supporting local nonprofits through both volunteering and financial contributions. We reached out to our friend Lindsay Gill, Founder of one of our favorite organizations, The Napkin Network, to share more about their mission and what makes it so special.
1. Can you tell us a little about The Napkin Network’s mission?
The Napkin Network’s mission is simple yet powerful: to provide free and easy access to basic baby essentials like diapers, wipes, formula, and emergency food to moms in need. We partner with underfunded nonprofits, local schools, and community organizations to ensure these critical items reach families facing hardship. Our goal is to ease the motherhood journey, one diaper, one wipe, one act of kindness at a time.
2. What prompted you to start The Napkin Network?
The idea for The Napkin Network was born out of a deep desire to support mothers who were struggling financially. As a mom myself, I understand how overwhelming the early days of motherhood can be—even with support. I couldn’t stop thinking about the moms who didn’t have a safety net, especially during times of crisis. What started as a simple initiative to collect baby essentials has grown into a community-driven movement. It’s proof that small acts of generosity can create a ripple effect of impact.
3. What have you loved most about your work with the organization?
What I’ve loved most is witnessing the power of community in action. Seeing neighbors rally together—whether it’s through donations, volunteering, or spreading the word—reminds me that people genuinely want to help; they just need a way to do it. Every diaper we distribute isn’t just an item; it’s a message to a mom that she’s not alone. That’s what keeps me going. I also love our DC community and I love sharing new venues or ways and places for people to come together.
4. What can we, as neighbors and fellow community members, do to share the love for The Napkin Network?
There are so many ways to support The Napkin Network! You can host diaper drives in your neighborhood, workplace, or school. You can donate directly—whether it’s baby essentials or financial contributions to help us meet growing needs. Even simply sharing our mission on social media helps us reach more people. Most importantly, keep the conversation going. When we talk about the real, everyday challenges moms face, we break the stigma around asking for help and create a more compassionate, connected community.
