Several families have been suffering tremendously because of the nationwide baby formula shortage in the United States.
One generous restaurant owned in North Texas saw the parents’ worries and decided to do something about it. His kind actions helped a lot of babies in dire need.
Benji Arslanovski, the owner of the Our Place Restaurant in Mansfield, Texas, says his business survived because of the kindness of his community. He said when the pandemic hit and the restaurant remain closed, his community had stepped in and helped save his establishment from shuttering down for good.
And when the chance arose, Arslanovski wanted to repay the favor his community had done for him. He found out that he could purchase baby formula from his food distributor who gets his supplies for his restaurant.
Arslanovski ordered 20 boxes of the baby formula; a very hot commodity amid the nationwide shortage. Local non-profits are trying to help families struggling to find baby formula amid the crisis but quickly run out of supplies.
Arslanovski and his staff at the restaurant have been fielding calls to their establishment all day. The calls are not for food but from concerned parents asking about the availability of baby formula.
“We’re just giving it away for free to moms and dads in need of it,” the restauranteur said.
Currently, there is a 40% shortage of baby formula in the United States. The shortage was a culmination of circumstances that included a strained supply chain and Abbott Nutrition’s recall of large batches of baby formula.
“I drove over 45 minutes because I have a newborn at home, and I only have one more can. And it’s really expensive right now to get them, and they’re backed up,” said relieved mom Yesica Martinez. His kindness is helping stressed parents find some relief.
Pediatrician Dr. Priya Bui has some advice for struggling parents. She recommends reaching out to your pediatrician since sometimes they have samples.
She also warns parents not to dilute formula since that could be very harmful to the baby as it reduces the required nutrients needed and affects the formula’s chemistry.
Abbott has reportedly reached a deal with regulators to start production at one of its facilities again to help ease the strain on the supply chain.
The Biden administration says it is also working with manufacturers to import formula and help relieve the shortage.
This story really highlights the need of paying it forward. Kindness can go a long way in helping society heal in times of trouble.
Share this heartwarming story with your friends and family to remind them how far a little kindness can go!
