Despite weather that was far from perfect, several moms-to-be and family members attended a baby shower at the Perry Public Library Wednesday.
Held from 4-5 p.m. the event was sponsored by Dallas County Public Health Nursing Services, who provide, free of charge, a variety of support programs for families.
“We will meet any mothers in Dallas County, whether this is their first baby or not,” Health Navigation Coordinator Ann Cochran said. “Normally we would meet with the mother in-home, although, as an example, if it is a high school student, we might meet in the counselor’s office of a study hall, and we are flexible enough that we can meet them in the evening or the weekend if they are working.”
Funded by 4Rkids program, the services offered include visits from a licensed nurse and a medical social worker. Mothers are informed about what to expect each month as their pregnancy advances, proper nutrition and health care. Parenting guidance and advice are offered and the nurse and social worker are ready to help mothers discuss any problems and stress they may be experiencing.
Help with paying bills, traveling to a clinic, and going back to school are among other services offered.
“It doesn’t stop with the birth of the baby,” Cochran added. “We are there after the baby arrives, too, with a focus on avoiding postpartum depression, which can be a real issue.”
Also on hand for Wednesday’s celebration was Maternal Child Health Nurse and Certified Breastfeeding Educator Stephanie Birt, RN, BSN.
Refreshments were served and mothers attending received a bag of gifts, courtesy of the Bock Foundation.
Cochran noted this was the first such baby shower the service had held, but that future events were likely in other parts of the county.
Dallas County Public Health can be reached by phone at 465-2383 in Perry, at 993-3750 in Adel and 1-800-811-7565 toll free as well as by email at phn@dallascountyiowa.gov. Online resources are also available.
