The Miami Beach Community Health Center (MBCHC) recently threw a baby shower for 56 expectant moms. While eating and looking over gift bags, the moms were able to hear important information in preparation for their new arrivals. The baby shower is one way the health center is able to reach out to expectant moms and bring them into the center for pre-natal and infant care.
MBCHC Healthy Start Coordinator, Maribella Benavidez (left), smiles with an expectant mom who won a big gift basket. Fifty six moms along with their family or friends came to enjoy the event.
Miami Beach Community Health Center pediatrician, Dr. Lannie Voung talked about newborn care, feeding issues, and immunizations. Nutritionist, Kara Burnstine, spoke of the importance of good nutrition for both mom and baby. Then the moms were able to break into smaller groups to discuss issues from post-partum depression and breast feeding, to parenting skills.
A table full of gift baskets included infant essentials like clothing, diapers, soaps and creams.
The health center throws this type of baby shower four times each year. It is always well attended. Beatriz Cruz, Director of the Prenatal Department at the Miami Beach Community Health Center, says “These moms are in their third trimester, and for many of them this is the first and only shower they will have before the baby is born. Many of them dont have family around to help them prepare, and we are proud to be able to host this event.”
