A North Country Tradition Turns 7

It started as a simple idea—what if we created a welcoming space for expecting parents to feel celebrated, supported, and seen? Seven years later, the Family Resource Center’s Free Community Baby Shower has become a North Country tradition that continues to grow in size, heart, and impact.

What began as a one-day event with a few tables of donated items and a small crowd of hopeful parents has blossomed into something much bigger: a true reflection of what a community can do when it comes together to support its youngest members and those raising them. 

The Journey of the Shower 

In its first year, the baby shower was small—but powerful. A handful of families came, some of them hesitant, many of them overwhelmed, all of them grateful. The atmosphere was simple but genuine. There were baby supplies, kind volunteers, and helpful information, but above all, there was warmth. 

As word spread, so did the support. Over time, local hospitals, doulas, early childhood providers, and wellness professionals began joining in. Local businesses started donating supplies. Service providers asked to set up tables. And volunteers—from teens to retirees—offered their time and talents. 

With each passing year, the shower evolved. There were growing pains—figuring out how to serve more people, finding enough space, managing logistics—but the spirit of the event never changed. It remained a place where families could come not just for supplies, but for reassurance, connection, and joy. 

Now, with two showers annually held in different regions, the tradition continues to reach more families and bring even more value to those stepping into the journey of parenthood. 

The Heart of It 

At its core, the Community Baby Shower exists to fill a gap—a gap felt deeply by many young or first-time parents, especially in rural areas. In a world where extended family and traditional baby showers aren’t always possible, this event offers something both simple and profound: a sense of belonging.

It reaches families who might be isolated, new to parenting, or navigating the transition under challenging circumstances. It offers access to resources like WIC, home visiting, and parenting classes, as well as connections to recovery supports, safety education, and early learning programs. 

But beyond the services and supplies, it offers dignity and delight—a rare moment of celebration in what can otherwise be a stressful or uncertain time. Parents don’t just leave with diapers and wipes. They leave with stories, laughter, and often, new connections to people and programs ready to walk alongside them. 

A Look at This Year 

In its seventh year, the Community Baby Shower continues to evolve. This summer, two events will bring together dozens of families, service providers, and volunteers in two different North Country communities. 

This year’s events will feature: 

• New giveaway items and essential baby gear 

• Interactive stations offering tips on newborn care, safety, and wellness 

• Photo booths to capture joyful memories 

• Opportunities to connect with community programs and other families 

• And as always, plenty of smiles, surprises, and meaningful moments 

Whether it’s your first time attending or your fourth time volunteering, there’s something special waiting for everyone who walks through the door. 

A Call to Community 

Over the years, this event has been made possible by an ever-growing circle of generosity. From longtime supporters like Gail Gettens, who has helped secure donations from across the state, to volunteers from AmeriHealth, students from Littleton High School, and even past attendees who now come back to give their time—this is a community effort in every sense of the word. 

As we celebrate year seven, we extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has helped shape this event into what it is today. And we invite you to be a part of what comes next—whether by donating, volunteering, attending, or simply spreading the word. 

Because when we lift up new parents, we strengthen families. And when we strengthen families, we build a brighter future for all of us. 

To get involved, donate, or find out more about this year’s Community Baby Showers, contact us at info@frc123.org. Together, let’s keep this tradition going strong.