Greenwich isn’t immune to the formula shortage that is plaguing the country. For Greenwich Moms relying on formula to feed their babies, it can be frustrating at best and devastating at worst not to know where or when they’ll be able to get their baby’s food. Lower income moms, who may not be able to buy more than one can at a time, or have the gas money required to drive from store to store looking for a stocked shelf, are being disproportionately affected.
“This is a very basic need for an infant…I don’t know how you measure the magnitude of how serious that need is,” says Margaret Goldberg, Executive Director of Neighbor to Neighbor. “Particularly coming right after COVID, which was debilitating for working families…you’re dealing at a very vulnerable point for women and children,” she adds.
Here are some ideas for finding formula that we’ve found.
Go on Facebook
Several private local groups on Facebook – including Greenwich Moms (not affiliated with our site) and Pay It Forward – Greenwich – have individual moms posting tips about full formula shelves, offering their surplus or even starting formula sharing threads. Moms can also join and post what they need and hope someone who sees it can help. Have extra unopened, non-expired formula? Join and share!
Shop Small
Greenwich has a number of locally owned, smaller pharmacies, like Palmer Pharmacy, Greenwich Pharmacy, Finch Pharmacy, Grannick’s Pharmacy and Greenview Pharmacy. If you can’t find formula at a larger chain store, give one of these a shot—you will likely find more personalized attention. “A Mom and Pop store will give you more flexibility during these times. Once we know what you need, we can start a search and find out from our suppliers what is in stock,’ says Louis Visconti of Palmer Pharmacy. An individual pharmacist can also coordinate with a pediatrician to expedite any medically necessary formula that a pediatrician can write a prescription for—just like they would with medication.
Stop by A Drive
Honey Joe’s Coffeehouse in Stamford is having a drop off/pickup area for moms looking to share or find formula. Thank you to Stamford Moms for sharing this great resource! For more, check out Stamford Moms Information & Resources During the Formula Shortage.
Utilize Resources for At-Risk Populations
Neighbor to Neighbor is ready to help anyone looking for formula – whether they are currently being serviced by N2N or not. Due to safety restrictions, Margaret says they don’t have a big stock of formula, but they can use connections at area food banks and other agencies to get families what they need. “I would really like the community to see us as a vital partner and whatever questions you have regarding access to food, personal essentials, formula, menstrual products…we are finders and seekers and have connections with community partners,” says Margaret. Moms in need should call 203 622 9208. And if you have extra formula (unopened and not expired) please drop it off and they’ll make sure it get to the right person.
Ask Your Pediatrician
Not only can a pediatrician help a mom with a prescription for medically-required formula, but they may have samples of various brands of formula. And if a mom is thinking of switching formulas, they can help her find a similar brand that meets a particular baby’s needs, and give a mom tips on making the transition.
