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Baby shower marks 6th year
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Kayden Smith, 6 months, takes in the scene during the sixth annual citywide baby shower on Monday at the McGuffey Centre. He was with his aunt, Kelley Ray of Youngstown.
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Alicia Baty holds her daughter, Kimberly Grace Baty, 5 months, while Tammie Riddle of Youngstown asks her a question during the citywide baby shower. In addition to games and refreshments, the event featured information from health-care agencies and social-service professionals who answered questions about health and wellness for mothers, babies and children.
By ELISE McKEOWN SKOLNICK
YOUNGSTOWN
It seemed like a typical baby shower — pink and blue balloons decorated the room, games were played, gifts were given, and cake was served.
But this baby shower was for more than one mom-to-be and included parents of children up to age 6.
It was the Associated Neighborhood Centers’ sixth annual citywide baby shower that took place Monday at the McGuffey Centre.
In addition to games and refreshments, health-care agencies and social-service professionals provided information and answered questions regarding health and wellness for mothers, babies and children.
“We give them a lot of information,” said Renee Johnson, director of youth programs at the center. “And even what’s more important, they learn about resources in the community that they probably don’t even know exist, that they can go and get information from if they need to get more details or actually need the services of a specific agency that’s here.”
Representatives from the Rich Center for Autism, Humility of Mary Health Partners, Mahoning County Children Services and more were present.
Lenora Hill, a representative from the office of Dr. Rodney Hill, a Youngstown obstetrician, said it’s important for every expectant mother to have a healthy pregnancy.
“So we’re here to promote that,” she said. Her table provided information in English and Spanish and she raffled off a diaper bag.
Hill has participated in the baby shower since its inception.
“I think it’s needed,” Hill said. “Any time you can come to a free event and get free information about your health and how to carry a healthy baby, you can’t lose.”
Kayla Trumbull of Youngstown is expecting her first child in February.
“I’m nervous,” she said. She attended the event to gather information.
“It’s interesting,” she said. “It’s a lot of information that they give you. Any questions you have, they answer them.”
Amanda Kana of Youngstown brought her sons Giovanni, 1, and Jayden, 4.
She was looking for information to be a better parent, and some free gifts.
This was her first time attending.
“I think it’s great,” she said. “The economy’s hard right now, so getting as much help as you can is awesome.”
Every parent and child left with a gift such as diapers, books and shoes. Car seats, bassinets and more were raffled as door prizes. Child care was provided for children age 3 and over.