By Sandy Meyer
Becoming a parent for the first time is one of the most exciting times of anyone’s life. Unfortunately, there are also many moms-to-be who are struggling financially and instead of experiencing the joy in preparing for a new child, they are struck with fear and uncertainty.
This is where Caregiver’s Helping Hand, Inc. steps in to help those in need. On Friday, October 9, Caregiver’s will be hosting its Sixth Annual Day of Pampering for Moms-to-Be. This annual event is a day of community support and access to resources for these women beginning their journey into parenthood. The community baby shower is the inspiration of Tampa’s Richedean Hills-Ackbar. The event attracted more than 250 moms-to-be in 2014 and Caregiver’s hopes to have more moms this year.
Generous sponsors include Staywell, 305-Paul Personal Injury Attorneys, Bounce Boy, Tampa Family Health Centers and Kingdom Tools for Destiny. Non-profit supporters include the Tampa Bay Chapter of Project Linus, YES! Of America United, Inc., and Reach Up.
Moms-to-be will experience free massages and belly painting by Artsy Faces by Luz, food, much-needed gifts, inspiring messages from speakers like KathySings4u and will be able to gather valuable information and resources from parenting training classes. There’s even a room for siblings to have fun while mom and dad are both being nurtured and pampered.
All of the moms-to-be to be are on public assistance in Hillsborough County.
“We are seeking items for new-born babies, girls and boys. Items needed include newborn diapers, baby bags, pacifiers, socks, blankets, hats, T-shirts, headbands, rattles, bottles, teething toys, strollers, mobiles, baby wipes, lotion, shampoo, power, crib sheets, baby swings, baby monitors, and bottle warmers,” said Hills-Ackbar.
To donate, volunteer or become a sponsor for this special day, visit www.chhincvolunteers.org. Moms-to-be can register at www.eventbrite.com, under Day of Pampering.
The shower takes place from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at University Area Community Development Corporation Recreation Center located at 14013 N. 22nd St. in Tampa.
