Heart of Florida United Way (HFUW) hosted its annual Community Baby Shower last week at three locations, including the Kissimmee Civic Center. The event provided one month of newborn essentials including diapers and wipes to expectant and new parents. This year the organization increased the number of families that were assisted this year from 100 to 150.
“We had more non-profit partners sign up to come and be part of the resource fair.” Lynnea Brawford, Vice President of Events and Experience said. HFUW wanted to make sure their services are more spread out so that families in the tricounty area can be provided assistance closer to home.
“At the time of the baby shower, I was living with my son’s grandparents, on his father’s side,” Diasha Fountain, a mother who attend the Shower last year who has come back to pay it forward as a volunteer, said. She stated that she discovered this event alongside her sister at Baby Institute and that it has impacted her by letting her know that there was help in the community from all over and that she was able to gain the information and tools needed to help her better care for her son.
The cost of a baby’s first year exceeds $20,000 in the United States. More than 40% of households in Orange, Osceola and Seminole Counties live above the poverty level but don’t qualify for government aid or are facing financial hardship. Heart of Florida United Way untied over a dozen businesses and organizations to help families start this next chapter of their lives on a strong foot with a Community Baby Shower in each county.
“We bring everyone together for a meal plus a resource fair and a big gift give away.” Brawford said. “They go around the room picking up $200 worth of items from diapers and clothing and feeding items, all types of baby basics.”
Families in attendance signed up to receive up to a month’s worth of newborn essentials stretched out over several stations as well as a resource fair featuring many community organizations. Families got the chance to meet with others in the community and learn about different resources and childcare tips as well an informational presentation directly from Advent Health.
“I decided to volunteer to give back and be on the other side of the fence, as I call it.” Diasha said. “I was able to receive help and now I want to give back.”
Families looking to attend will have to sign up beforehand for the next annual event. For any expectant or newborn parents seeking assistance or services can call 211 or visit www.hfuw.org for more information.
