Anna Calix, founder and executive director of Gifts from Liam, highlighted on Mar. 12 the ongoing challenges faced by families struggling to afford diapers and baby supplies across Chicago’s South Side, West Side, and the south suburbs. The nonprofit organization was established in 2017 in memory of her son, Liam Angel, and has since distributed more than 200,000 diapers and related items to families in need.
Diaper insecurity remains a significant issue for many parents who must balance basic needs for their children. Calix said, “Families shouldn’t have to choose between diapers and food. But rising costs and limited income are forcing too many parents into that position.”
The organization began after a diaper drive held for what would have been Liam’s first birthday collected about 20,000 diapers. Since then, Gifts from Liam has expanded its reach through drives and partner sites. Recent data show that between June and September 2025, the Park Forest distribution site served 91 children with requests coming from 54 ZIP codes—most within the local region—and that nearly four out of five families reported household incomes below $35,000 per year.
Calix’s background includes a master’s degree in public health from the University of Illinois Chicago as well as experience supporting families during pregnancy and infant loss. This expertise shapes the organization’s approach: supply packages include both essential items and educational materials on safe pregnancy and infant care.
Economic pressures such as inflation and interruptions in public benefits have increased demand for assistance while donations have not always kept pace. During Diaper Need Awareness Week, only about half as many diapers were collected compared to earlier drives. Community volunteers remain central to operations; over 125 people helped package more than 25,000 diapers during a recent Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service event.
Gifts from Liam also supports families experiencing pregnancy or infant loss by donating resources like a Cuddle Cot to Rush University Medical Center. Calix said the goal is to provide respectful support: “This is about dignity for families and giving parents the space to focus on what matters most — their children’s health and well-being.”
The Village of Park Forest promotes community health through dedicated commissions and programs according to the official website. The village has received recognition for sustainability efforts in town planning according to the official website and aims to improve economic conditions through collaboration according to the official website. Its council-manager government features a mayor with six trustees according to the official website, while leadership in sustainability is shown by supporting national climate agreements according to the official website. Educational opportunities are provided through its Civic Leadership Academy according to the official website.
