Preparing for a newborn baby can be a mix of emotions, joyful and overwhelming.
The SEK Multi-County Health Department is hoping to make the transition into parenthood easier with a community baby shower from 1 to 3 p.m. on April 5 at the Bass Community Building, 505 N. Buckeye.
Vicki Howard, Healthy Start Home Visitor for the department, said the baby shower is a first for the department. Employees got the idea from a conference in Wichita, she said.
Most communities in the area that have hosted a baby shower are communities that are at-risk.
The department is currently taking donations for the event so each person that attends can take home something. They are looking for items like wipes, baby bath soap, diapers and bibs. Howard said they are also trying to get the money to purchase sleep sacks to promote safe sleep. There will also be information on safe sleep habits.
“We would really like to have something for everyone who attends,” Howard said. “We’ve received some donations but not as many as we had hoped.”
Howard is hoping more local businesses will step in and help out. The shower is for anyone who is pregnant or who has had a baby within the last six months.
“It is for everyone but it’s really for those who don’t have a lot,” she said.
During the event there will be booths set up providing information on topics like oral care, vaccinations, child care and car seat installation. There will also be drawings and door prizes and refreshments for attendees.
Howard said she would like to host this event annually but the success of the first event will determine that.
Donations may be dropped off at the Health Department. For more information contact 620-365-2191.
Baby shower to help new parents
