A few coins can make a huge difference. That’s the reasoning behind Miami’s Baby Bottle Campaign. This campaign is a fundraiser that collects money to support mothers, babies, and families who are having financial problems. Every year, churches and schools across Miami align with pregnancy resource centers to give out hundreds of empty baby bottles. Anyone who gets one is meant to take it home, put some money in it, then return it. Every donation regardless of size goes toward providing resources for mothers in need.

“The point is not to do it quickly. We want to put it in a place where everybody can chip in whether it’s coins, cash, or whatever they want to put in the bottles as long as they are helping,” explained Mrs. Ana Roman-Gonzalez, the Theology teacher who coordinates the baby bottle campaign at ILS.

The Baby Bottle Campaign has become a tradition at many schools and churches, reminding the community that helping others can start with something as small as pocket change. Last year, ILS raised around $5,000 which went to mothers to fund parenting classes, prenatal care, and support services. ILS hopes to exceed that record this year with the help of students and teachers.

“I always donate $40 or more because my mom’s friend is a single mother, and I know how hard it can be to provide for kids,” said junior Ashley Gomez.

Donating is easy. Anyone in can pick up a bottle from their Theology teacher.

“I know someone who is a teen mom and I see how much she struggles so I always donate to help others like her. I try to encourage anyone who can to donate so nobody has to suffer alone,” said junior Zoe Pazos.

With just a little spare change, Miami residents can help fill bottles, and hearts, with hope. The campaign continues until the end of October.