The 1-year-old from Dalton, Georgia, was picked out of 140,000 babies to represent the iconic brand.
Meet Lucas, the first
Gerber Spokesbaby with Down syndrome. Gerber/Warren Family
The 2018 Gerber Spokesbaby contest winner was revealed on
Wednesday, and he’s instantly making history.
One-year-old Lucas from Dalton, Georgia, is the first
ever baby with Down syndrome to win the photo contest since it
launched in 2010.
Lucas’ winning
photo. Gerber/Warren
Family
Gerber announced the news on social media after Lucas made
an appearance on Wednesday morning’s episode of “Today.”
Lucas was picked out of 140,000 babies to represent the
iconic baby products brand due to his upbeat demeanor and
infectious smile.
“Lucas’ winning smile and joyful expression won our hearts
this year, and we are all thrilled to name him our 2018
Spokesbaby,” Bill Partyka, President and CEO of Gerber, said
in a statement provided to INSIDER. “Every year, we choose the
baby who best exemplifies Gerber’s longstanding heritage of
recognizing that every baby is a Gerber baby, and this year,
Lucas is the perfect fit.”
The Warren
family. Gerber/Warren
Family
Lucas’ parents will also receive $50,000 as winners of the
contest, but they’re most thrilled about the opportunity to
represent the special needs community.
“We hope this opportunity sheds light on the special needs
community and educates people that with acceptance and support,
individuals with special needs have the potential to change the
world – just like our Lucas!” Lucas’ mother Courtney Warren said
in a statement.
Lucas is making
history. Gerber/Warren
Family
So far the response has been overwhelmingly positive, with
several people saying his adorable photos are melting their
hearts.
Even the original Gerber baby, Ann Turner Cook, took a moment to
congratulate Lucas on his new title.
“I am delighted to take part in this celebration,” Cook said in a
statement provided to INSIDER. “Lucas is precious, and I look
forward to watching him grow this year!”
The original Gerber
baby. Gerber
People can expect to see much more of Lucas as he appears in
several social media posts for Gerber throughout the year.
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