Capital Regional Community Resource Inc. goes beyond the traditional baby shower and spearheads community initiatives to support new and expectant parents.
Led by President Khaira Mumtaz, the organization not only strives to provide essential resources, but also fosters a sense of community and shared responsibility.
Reflecting on her personal experience, Mumtaz highlights the inspiration behind the Capital Region Community Baby Shower.
“We usually give out free clothing to the community, but we realized there was a need,” she said. “As parents ourselves, we participated in most of these organizations like WIC, our children’s daycare centers were CEOs, and we were living” in public housing. So we know how much it costs to have a child and how hard it is. I just wanted to be able to finally give back. ”
Events like this are extremely important when you consider that the average cost of childbirth in the United States is $18,865. Health insurance can cover most of those costs, so those with insurance could potentially save thousands of dollars. Events held at the Troy Boys & Girls Club are more than just a baby shower. This is a meeting for all caregivers to attend.
Capital Region Vice President of Community Resources Joseph Mumtaz emphasizes the inclusivity of this event.
“It’s open to mothers and fathers and even adopted children and grandparents,” he said. “Sometimes the unfortunate situation arises where children have to be cared for by several different people. And this is a great help for those who may not know there is help out there for them.” It’s a way of giving back.”
As mother of three Patty Gordon points out, the financial burden of raising children is a universal challenge. She shared her perspective on the important support system that events like this provide.
“Whether you’re high-income or low-income, everyone is taking control of their finances by simply taking some of the financial burden off,” she says. “So not only does it provide an extra support system, but it’s also a good place to bring in new or gently used items.”
A study by Lend Edu found that the average cost of raising a child for the first year is just over $13,000, with a median cost of $6,000. These events play an important role in alleviating the financial pressures associated with the early stages of parenthood.
Jesse Koerner, a father and grandfather who attended the event, emphasized the importance of community support and challenged stereotypes about men’s involvement in raising children.
“This is a blessing, and this is something that really everyone should take advantage of, especially when you have kids who live in environments and times where everything is tough,” Corner said.
Kayla Mumtaz hopes events like this will have a ripple effect across the state for new and soon-to-be parents. For more information about the Capital Regional Community Resource organization, visit its website at capitalregioncommunityresource.org.