About Us

The Gentle Start Was Born three years ago, I was pregnant with my daughter while raising my two sons as a single mom. I was working hard but barely making ends meet. As my due date approached, I found myself just two weeks away from welcoming a new life and I had nothing prepared. No diapers, no clothes, no bottles. I had spent my entire pregnancy filled with anxiety and fear, constantly worrying about how I would provide the basics for my baby. I felt like I had failed her before she was even born.

I searched online, hoping to find help, but everything I came across felt impossible full of hoops to jump through, long wait times, or no response at all. It wasn’t until my coworkers surprised me with a baby shower that I finally had the essentials I needed. That moment changed everything. It was a blessing I didn’t expect, and it gave me the peace I had been praying for.

That experience stayed with me. And three years ago, God placed something on my heart to do something for moms who find themselves in the same position I was in overwhelmed, under-resourced, and just trying to give their baby a gentle start.

The Gentle Start was created to be that helping hand. No hoops. No judgment. Just love, support, and the essentials every mom deserves to have when welcoming her baby.

Whether you're a mom in need or someone who wants to help, we invite you to be part of this mission. Together, we can make sure no mom feels alone and every baby is welcomed with care.

Meet Our Founder

Tadaryl Hills founded The Gentle Start from a place of lived experience. She recognized how difficult it can be for mothers facing hardship to access even the most basic newborn essentials. with compassion and purpose, she created The Gentle Start Initiative to provide tangible support, hope and a gentle beginning for both mothers and their babies.