You would think Nicole Mills would have enough to do, caring for sons ages 3 and 1 who receive Early Intervention services from Northeast Arc. Yet, the Lynn mother has been running a de-facto baby supplies outlet out of her basement for almost three years.
Nikki’s Nursery Exchange is the official name for her venture, which, according to its Facebook page, is a “community organization.” In reality, it’s more like a one-woman show.
The concept is simple: People need clothing and supplies and furniture for babies, but they typically don’t need them for too long. So, why not have families donate used items so that other families, especially those who might find it a financial challenge to buy everything, can benefit.
Mills, who got the idea after seeing her aunt’s church collect and distribute baby-related items, started accepting donations of such items and directing them to people in need. It didn’t take long for the word to spread, and soon her basement was full of clothes, strollers, toys, bottles, crib mattresses, diaper bags and breast-milk pumps. She also found that the items didn’t stay long.
“It’s easy to find people in need,” she said. “I had a lot of friends who had stuff lying around that they didn’t know what to do with. So, I started taking donations.”
Once Mills created the Facebook page, the positive power of social media was in effect, and the calls, texts and emails started flowing in.
Mills’ core constituency is comprised of other families going through Early Intervention (EI), though it is not limited to them. She started networking through Northeast Arc when her older son was referred to EI due to complications at birth. Her younger son also receives services.
“I love the program; I can’t say enough good things about it,” Mills said. “Arc helped me become the mom I am today.”
