A group of women in Sioux Center, Iowa, are working together to provide essential items to mothers and expecting mothers in need.
The Community Baby Shower Project
The “NW IA Baby Shower” non-profit is hosting its first event, which will provide a variety of essential items to at least 100 mothers and their families. The event will take place on Saturday, April 26, starting at 10 a.m. and will continue until all items have been distributed.
- Diapers
- Strollers
- Clothing
- Bottles
- Formula
- Wipes
These essential items were donated by local businesses, churches, schools, and through fundraising events. The goal is to create a sense of community and support for these families. The non-profit idea started in October, and since then, a team of dedicated women have been working tirelessly to organize the event. The team, led by Jan Henryson, the President of NW IA Baby Shower, is passionate about providing a safe and welcoming space for mothers and their families.
Meeting the Needs of Mothers and Families
The event aims to provide more than just essential items. The team wants to create a sense of love and support for these families, who often face significant challenges. According to Lisa Doelman, a team member, “We started this nonprofit NW IA baby shower to bless moms and their babies, make them feel valued, worthwhile, and have the necessities so that they’re not going without food or whatever to take care of their children.”
The event will feature a variety of items, including new and gently used supplies, such as blankets, clothing, and car seats. The team has also received donations of toys and formula to help prepare new families for the arrival of their baby.
Creating a Sustainable Community
The team hopes that the community baby shower will be an annual event, and they are also exploring ways to expand their services. They are considering opening a diaper bank in the area, which would provide additional resources for families in need. The closest diaper bank to Sioux Center is currently located in Omaha, Nebraska. The team wants to add to the existing resources in the area, rather than reinventing the wheel.
Get Involved and Support the Cause
The community baby shower is a wonderful opportunity for families to come together and support one another. The team invites all mothers and expecting mothers to attend the event and take advantage of the essential items available. If you would like to donate any new or gently used baby items, please contact NW IA Baby Shower on Facebook. Physical donations can be dropped off at “712 Nutrition” located at 15 2nd St SW, Sioux Center, Iowa, or at “Justice for All” in Rock Valley.
“Women, babies, know that you are loved not only by us, but especially by our Heavenly Father,” said Jan Henryson, President of NW IA Baby Shower.
“We want that generosity to keep going in our community,” added Lisa Doelman. “We have blankets, new and used clothing, new diapers, new and used strollers. We’ve gotten some car seats, some high chairs, some pack and plays, Baby carriers, Formula, Toys, so a variety of different things.”
The team is still in need of a few items, including wipes, larger-sized diapers in sizes 4, 5, 6, and 7, and pack and plays. They are grateful for any contributions that can help make the event a success.
| Item | Donation Site |
|---|---|
| Diapers | 712 Nutrition, 15 2nd St SW, Sioux Center, Iowa |
| Wipes | Justice for All, 1335 Valley Drive, Rock Valley |
| Pack and Plays | 712 Nutrition, 15 2nd St SW, Sioux Center, Iowa |
Conclusion
The community baby shower is a heartwarming example of how a group of dedicated women can come together to make a positive impact in their community. By providing essential items and creating a sense of love and support, the team is helping to make a difference in the lives of mothers and their families. As they continue to grow and expand their services, they invite everyone to join them in their mission to support those in need.