On Aug. 27 Beginnings Family Services staff and volunteers were outside of Walmart handing out flyers and accepting donations at its first ever Diaper Drive.
They received a number of needed items and cash donations – all toward the centre’s care cupboard.
Beginnings Family Services is a not-for-profit organization offering pregnancy and parenting support to women and families experiencing unplanned pregnancies. Last year alone the centre served more than 700 families.
Beginnings clients are invited to visit for counselling throughout their pregnancy as they prepare for the new baby, and for parenting support until the baby is age 2. The centre provides clients with clothing, diapers, wipes, baby food, formula, counseling and parenting classes all free of charge.
The care cupboard meets an immediate need in the Guelph area. The staff and volunteers build relationships with clients and encourage them to take advantage of the other programs available. The programs teach self-esteem and communication skills, healthy choices, parenting skills, labour and delivery, and offer support to both the mother and father.
The goal is to break the cycle of poverty by offering a hand-up and not just another hand-out.
For more information about its services visit www.beginningsguelph.ca or support@beginningsguelph.ca.
