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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