Community Baby Shower Wish List | Cape and Islands United Way

Community Baby Shower

In the spirit of a traditional baby shower, the Community Baby Shower is a celebration for new and expectant mothers. The purpose of the event is to serve low-income families with access to the valuable local resources to help give them a stronger start to parenthood.

Note: This is a private event for families in need. We do rely on the generosity of our donors to fulfill our wish list of shower gifts and resources.

Questions? Please contact Beth Bowman at bbowman@uwcapecod.org

BACKGROUND

In the fall of 2016, the Cape and Islands United Way formed a multidisciplinary team of local experts to brainstorm how we could “get upstream” of the challenges we face as a community – including substance abuse, mental health, food insecurity, financial instability, and an adequate work force -- by addressing the needs of our youngest children. The factors contributing to our community challenges are complex and interconnected. But we know that:

Investing in young children is an investment in future productivity and public safety that can return as much as $8 for every $1 invested.

Family environments are critical in determining education, skill, motivation, persistence, and self-control. Growing numbers of children face adverse environments that restrict their development.

STATISTICS

In Barnstable County, the challenges of poverty and achievement are at the forefront.

13% of Cape Cod's children live in poverty. Many more children are suffering from emotional poverty.
Children from low income families are exposed to 30 million fewer words than their higher income peers by age 3.
30% of the Cape’s children are not reading proficiently by grade 3.
The first 3 years of life are the period of most rapid brain growth.

DONATION WISH LIST

SUPPORTED BY

COVID-19 Update

Due to the circumstances surrounding the COVID-19 epidemic, we will not be holding a public event this year. We do understand, however, that resources are needed now more than ever! We are still collecting donations, and will be making arrangements to hand deliver baby supplies and educational materials to our families.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

Your donation of newborn necessities will help new and expectant parents experiencing economic hardship give their children a stronger start. Please note that we can only accept donations of NEW ITEMS. Thank you!

Many stores are temporarily closed, and we want you to continue staying safe through social distancing. Please use our Amazon Wish List to make a donation.

THANK YOU!

Diapers - newborn to age 2
Wipes
Bottles
Books
Pacifiers
Swaddling blankets
Bath necessities – shampoo, wash, lotions, diaper cream, wash cloths, towels
Wellness items – baby Tylenol, Pedialyte, nail clippers, thermometers, nasal bulbs
Clothing – onesies, sleepers, baby socks, booties, bibs, infant mittens, burp cloths
Changing pads & covers
Crib necessities – sheets, crib mattress pads
Rattles/Toys (newborn appropriate)
Gift cards: CVS, Stop & Shop