The Princess of Wales opted for relaxed attire during her visit to a community baby bank today.
Baby Bank Windsor, established in 2015 by two local mothers, now aids families across Windsor, Maidenhead, Slough, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, and nearby regions. According to a statement from Kensington Palace, the organization offers various items to families such as newborn essentials, school gear, diapers, strollers, and beds, sourced from public donations, retail partnerships, and local businesses.
We gather more insights about the visit from an article in the Harrow Times.
The charity not only provides critical supplies like diapers and school uniforms but also collaborates with healthcare professionals to support mothers during and after pregnancy.
In a discussion with some of these professionals, the princess commended their crucial, often unseen efforts, noting, “It is particularly challenging now for midwifery, volunteer groups, and organizations like this, as well as for health visitors who face significant pressures to meet the increasing needs of families,” she observed.
“You are deeply involved in these efforts. You witness the struggles of these families firsthand,” she added.
A brief video courtesy of Rebecca English from The Daily Mail.
Further details are available in an article from the Daily Mirror.
During her visit, Kate inspected a large collection of boxes filled with Buzz Lightyear toys donated by Mattel. “Oh yes, my daughter adores Toy Story,” she remarked.
She expressed interest in the extensive reach of The Baby Bank, noting that “it might not seem like a primary area of need at first glance.”
Returning to the Daily Mirror article.
Kate engaged the charity’s co-founders, Rebecca Mistry and Lauren Hall, inquiring about their operations and local demands.
Rebecca explained their approach to aligning donations with specific children to avoid the impression of arbitrary handouts.
“Have the needs of families evolved recently?” Kate inquired, surprised to learn that while the demand has surged, donations have not kept pace.
“People are either holding onto their items, passing them to friends, or selling things like strollers for extra cash,” Lauren detailed.
And from the Daily Mail’s coverage.
As she sorted through the donations, Rebecca commented that many people feel nostalgic seeing the tiny clothes, joking, ‘Whereas I look at them and think I don’t want to go through that again.’
The princess laughed, responding, ‘I’ve been there and done that.’
Before departing, she took time to chat with some of the bank’s volunteers as well as local midwives and health visitors who play a key role in referring families for assistance.
Another perspective.
Here’s a recap of what Kate wore.
She revisited her Larsson Double-Breasted Twill Blazer ($545) by Reiss, previously worn during her visit to RAF Brize Norton in September 2021 and again during a meeting with Ukrainian aid workers in April 2022.
The blazer, characterized by its double-breasted design, patch pockets, peak lapels, and a single back vent, is available in light camel at Reiss, Bloomingdale’s, and Saks. A navy version is currently on sale at Nordstrom for 25% off ($408).
She paired it with her Frieda Crepe Cigarette Trousers (sold out) by LK Bennett, also worn during the 2021 RAF Brize Norton engagement.
According to Carly at Kate Middleton Style, the Princess sported a new pair of shoes by Boden, the brand’s Pointed Ballet Flats ($190), available in black suede with limited sizes, and also in deep olive and tomato.
She accessorized with her Daniella Draper Gold Citrine Baby Treasure Necklace ($1100) and Bruna Earrings ($60, now sold out) by Sézane, first seen in December 2021 at a V&A engagement. Wearing Sézane was fitting as the retailer recently announced a new philanthropic partnership with Baby 2 Baby.
