Our community has been known nationally for its extreme high rate of teen pregnancy and infant mortality. We saw a need in Stark County to serve and protect these young lives. Young Moms’ Club and the Young Moms’ Club Baby Shower seek to reach an underserved, at-risk population and connect them with the resources they need to be their child’s first and best teacher.

The program started as a storytime to train parents in early literacy skills. It has evolved to include a biannual Baby Shower involving more than 20 community organizations sharing information with our young attendees. These moms and moms-to-be also receive donated clothing as well as other necessities. They can play games, learn about the library and connect with other moms. We expanded the program to include classes like health and safety topics such as infant sleep, breastfeeding and caring for their baby.

The Young Moms’ Club Baby Shower has grown from a simple library program to a community event connecting parents and parents-to-be with other families and social service, health and recreation organizations. Attendance has increased 400% in the last three years. We started with two community organizations and now have more than 20. This program has increased awareness of our library and all we offer to the community.