The cornerstone of every Chapter of Christ Child Society is the Layette Program.
Our inspiration dates back to 1884 when Christ Child Society founder, Mary Virginia Merrick, was told about a woman soon to give birth who had no clothes for her baby. Quickly organizing her sisters and friends, Mary Virginia provided a complete layette in time for the new arrival.
Layettes are packages of clothing and supplies for newborn infants. Each layette includes a sleep sack, flannel receiving blanket, hooded towel, washcloth, body suit, sleeper, gown, burp cloth, cap and socks. Christ Child Society members and their community groups also provide hand knit blankets, caps, booties and bibs.
The 2025 Layette Appeal is live! Please consider donating to the Layette Program to support the creation of thousands of Layette bundles, all of which are distributed to local mothers-in-need.
Our Program
The Detroit Layette program began in the basement of the Joy Road Christ Child House, and in 2004, moved into a separate building located on Crooks Road in Clawson.
Twice a month, Christ Child Society members gather at the Layette House and open new merchandise, divide it among shelving units for easier distribution and assemble the number of requested layettes for various agencies that provide support and supplies to new mothers across Metro Detroit.
Each year, more than 1,200 layettes are distributed to dozens of agencies throughout metro Detroit.
It is through the generosity of our Christ Child members and the dedication of our wonderful volunteers that we are able to provide much needed items to new mother in need and their babies, just as Mary Virginia Merrick had envisioned.
Recipient Agencies
All My Children
Babies R Precious
Children’s Aid Society
Crystal Home Health Care
Gentle Hearts
Impact Community Health
IPH
Jumpstart
Lennon Center
Little Tots & Moms
Maternal Partners
MOST
New St. Paul
NIA Purpose for Life
Second Chance
Silverspoons
Great Start
Glorious
Mother’s Friend
Mother & Unborn Baby Care (MAUBC)
Peace Home Health Services
Small Treasures
Wings of Angels
Moms, Dads & Babes
HFA Wayne
Women in Touch
Patterns
Baby Blankets
(Receiving and Hand-tied fleece blankets)
The Christ Child Society Layette Program is so appreciative of our hand knitters and fleece blanket makers. Above are a few patterns to help you get started but please feel free to use your own. Including a hand-made item makes each of our layettes unique and special. Once completed, please email [email protected] Â and we will make pick up or drop off arrangements. Thank you for your generosity!