Brittany's Baskets Of Hope Founder Wins National Honor

NEW YORK, NY — Brittany Schiavone, founder of non-profit Brittany's Baskets of Hope, was named the L’Oréal Paris Women of Worth National Honoree on Wednesday. Schiavone, 30, of Huntington, was selected via national public online vote and received $35,000 from L’Oréal Paris to use towards her organization.

At the end of October, Schiavone and nine others across the United States were named nomineesfor the L’Oréal Paris 2019 Women of Worth campaign as those working towards admirable causes. Each honoree received $10,000 from the personal care company, though as the leading vote-getter, Schiavone got an extra $25,000.

Schiavone, who has Down syndrome, learned that the first words many parents hear in response to the birth of a child with Down syndrome are "I'm sorry." That fueled her to launch Brittany's Baskets of Hope in 2016, an organization that delivers baskets to parents of children born with Down syndrome. Each basket contains hand-knit baby blankets, booties and hats, as well as a special onesie that reads "Downright Perfect," among other items donated by local and national organizations.

The first basket delivery was made in October 2016. Since then, over 900 baskets have been sent across 49 states, as well as Puerto Rico. The BBOH team personally delivers baskets to Long Island parents.

Schiavone's efforts paid off, as she was presented by actress Aja Naomi King Wednesday night at the annual Celebration gala at the Pierre Hotel in NYC as she acknowledged the honor.

Her core message is "babies with Down Syndrome can do anything. Really, really anything."

"The L'Oréal Paris Women of Worth are selfless heroes who through great courage, perseverance, and sacrifice are embracing their worth and instilling it in others," Ali Goldstein, president of L'Oréal Paris, said via press release. "They are the purest embodiment of our iconic tagline, 'Because You're Worth It.'"

When she was named a national honoree, Schiavone had told Patch she was honored just to be named one of 10 in the country. After all, it helped her spread the word of BBOH.

"Brittany is a testament to the success of individuals with Down syndrome and her story helps parents envision futures for their children and all they can achieve," the release states.

L'Oréal Paris Women of Worth aimed to honor the intrinsic beauty and worth of women who are positively impacting their communities through philanthropy.

Photos courtesy L'Oreal Paris Women Of Worth