I’m a nursing student at Lakeview College of Nursing in Danville. Along with a couple of other students, we’ve formed a nonprofit group called Healthy Options for Parental Success (H.O.P.S). Our group’s purpose is to put on a Community Baby Shower for pregnant women from low-income families in the Danville area.
Most of these pregnant moms likely would not receive a shower and are raising their families as a single-parent and/or a teen mom. In a society that doesn’t support this demographic of women, our hope is to celebrate them and their babies-to-be and make them feel special… as every expecting mother should feel!
At the shower, we will provide educational information on important perinatal issues. Choice local organizations will also be present to provide information on their resources available for these women. We hope that by providing this info, the women will feel empowered to have healthier pregnancies and know how to access support in the area if they need it.
Also, what would a shower be without food, games, and gifts?
We are looking to local businesses to provide food and cake for the event. We have had decent success with this. However, we are still in need of a cake. If anyone knows of a baker willing to donate a cake, or possibly provide one at a great discount, let me know!
What we have greatest need for, are donations. We hope to provide all women who attend with a package of diapers and wipes. This way, no one leaves empty-handed! If you would like to donate, $5 will purchase a package of diapers, and $2 will purchase a package of wipes ($7 buys a set for one mom).
We are also accepting any baby items. Items need not be new or store-bought. Anything a new mom could use would be greatly appreciated! Items like high chairs, baby swings, bottles, blankets, baby clothes, baby toys, books, etc. are perfect. Any baby things we receive will be raffled off as prizes to the attendees.
The event is scheduled for November 14th (10a-2p). We are expecting to have between 40 and 50 moms… so we have lots of work to do!
If you would like to donate, you can contact me, Carolina, at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) or 217-722-6065. I would be happy to pick up any items in the area to facilitate your donation. 
