Two South Florida mothers are leading a nationwide effort to support families with Down syndrome children, delivering more than 13,000 resource-filled baskets through an organization called Jack’s Basket. Emily Hitchcock of West Palm Beach and Leah Rodriguez of Pembroke Pines began their mission after receiving similar support when their own babies were diagnosed with the genetic condition. The initiative coincides with World Down Syndrome Day, which was observed Saturday.
“Someone who didn’t know my baby knew that she was valuable and worthy of celebration, and I wanted to be able to do that for all my families,” said Hitchcock. The Jack’s Basket organization provides newly diagnosed families with resources, gifts, and what the mothers describe as a simple but powerful message that their children are worth celebrating. Both women experienced firsthand the impact of receiving these baskets when they learned about their babies’ diagnoses.
The baskets contain educational materials, support resources, and celebratory items designed to help families navigate the initial period following a Down syndrome diagnosis. Jack’s Basket has expanded its reach across South Florida, with Hitchcock and Rodriguez personally delivering packages to families throughout the region. The organization operates on a request basis, allowing families to access support when they need it most.
Down syndrome affects approximately 1 in 700 babies born in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The genetic condition occurs when an individual has a full or partial extra copy of chromosome 21, leading to developmental delays and intellectual disabilities of varying degrees. Florida has seen increased advocacy efforts for individuals with Down syndrome in recent years, with various support organizations establishing chapters throughout the state.
The Jack’s Basket initiative represents a grassroots approach to addressing what the founders see as persistent stigma surrounding Down syndrome. Hitchcock and Rodriguez focus their efforts on the critical early period when families receive diagnoses, often during pregnancy or shortly after birth. Their work spans multiple counties in South Florida, including Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade.
Families interested in requesting a Jack’s Basket or learning more about the organization’s mission can visit JacksBasket.org. The website provides information about available resources and allows families to connect with local coordinators like Hitchcock and Rodriguez. The organization continues to expand its network of volunteers and supporters across Florida and other states.