Changemaker Chronicles: The Care Comfort Closet at Concord Hospital Obstetrics and Gynecology - Laconia

Interview with: Maria Rosario, Practice Administrator

When Maria Rosario and her team at Concord Hospital Obstetrics and Gynecology - Laconia recognized a growing need among their patients, they took immediate action. The clinical staff observed that many patients required support beyond standard medical care, facing severe financial strains that made purchasing essential items such as diapers, feminine hygiene products, self-care items, and even basic groceries, a daily struggle.

In response, Maria transformed a room at the Laconia practice on North Main Street into a discrete community closet for patients. Visitors receive an unbranded bag to fill with whatever essentials they need; including over-the-counter medications like aspirin and Tylenol, diapers, nursing pads, and donated hand-crocheted hats.

"We needed to do it in a way that preserves their pride and dignity—to normalize the giving," Maria explains, noting that patients are consistently humble and deeply grateful.

While awareness of the closet currently spreads primarily through word of mouth, Maria hopes to expand its reach. The initiative addresses urgent, everyday challenges: a mother asking if there might be a small birthday gift for her child, or a family needing emergency provisions when food assistance funds run low at the end of the month. "Our team knows this community and goes out of its way to ensure everyone gets what they need," Maria notes.

Addressing common assumptions about community aid programs, Maria emphasizes that patients rarely take more than they need; in fact, staff often have to encourage individuals to take additional supplies because patients worry about leaving enough for others. Local retail partners confirm this spirit of integrity: holiday gift certificates provided for Vista Foods are routinely used strictly for approved essentials.

Support from the Lakes Region Children’s Fund has provided vital sustainability for the initiative. "What I worry about is having enough resources to keep up with the demand," says Maria. "We didn't realize how constant and widespread the need in the Laconia community was across all age groups—it’s not just young mothers who need our help. With support from the Greater Lakes Region Children’s Fund, we can reach more women and continue growing the program."

Donations are always welcome to support local families including toys and stuffed animals, gently-used children’s books, diapers and wipes, and handmade knitted/crocheted items. Items can be dropped off at the Laconia OB-GYN Office at 734 Main Street in Laconia.

The Greater Lakes Region Children’s Fund is proud to partner with Laconia OB-GYN in their work supporting their patients in a holistic way.

Article written by Beth Osgood Dodge. If you are funded by the Greater Lakes Region Children's Fund

contact Beth at beth03253@gmail.com to arrange an interview and let us spread awareness for your mission!