Matthew Shelak: Executive Director | Jeanes Hospital
Matthew Shelak: Executive Director | Jeanes Hospital
Temple Health recently collaborated with community partners to organize two baby showers aimed at supporting local parents. The events provided an opportunity for participants to learn about the services offered at Temple Women & Families and connect with available community resources.
"As we lead the way in maternal health and wellness in Philadelphia by opening Temple Women & Families, we're also partnering with the organizations that are on the ground doing this work," said Sharon Kurfuerst, Executive Director of Temple Women & Families.
One of the main collaborators was maternal wellness coalition Cocolife.black, which hosted its fourth annual Community Baby Shower at Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church in late March. Attendees received free health screenings and information about Temple Women & Families from various providers. Aliya Khabir, Marketing Manager for Community Health, explained, "This baby shower is really a mainstay in the community. The goal was to be a one-stop shop for those who need support in parenthood."
On April 12th, Temple Health partnered with the Oshun Family Center for another Community Baby Shower at Temple Women & Families. The carnival-themed event provided access to services from team members across several specialties. Kim Hanson, VP and Chief Nursing Officer, highlighted the convenience of the center's services: "How great is it that you can have your prenatal appointment, and your two-year-old can have their checkup right next door?"
Khabir shared the effort to enhance convenience for parents. "We have a WIC office on-site, and we're working on establishing offices for other community partners that provide resources to parents."
Attendees at the second baby shower could engage with numerous local organizations offering diverse resources, from health and wellness to family support, along with entertainment like a food truck, a DJ, and games. Khabir concluded, "The Oshun Family Center is always talking about needing a village to raise a child, and at this baby shower, we brought the village to the moms."