Volunteers Support Underprivileged New Mothers On North Shore

EVANSTON, IL — Prior to the onset of the coronavirus pandemic, volunteers from the Junior League of Evanston-North Shore had been planning a baby shower for underprivileged new mothers. The "Baby Steps" shower is an annual undertaking by the Winnetka-based nonprofit's newest member class.

For the past 12 years, the group has partnered with staff at NorthShore University HealthSystem's perinatal family support center to provide supplies to mothers and their newborn children whose future is at risk as a result of a lack of access to essential items and critical education, according to the women's organization.

But the outbreak of COVID-19 in Illinois and Gov. J.B. Pritzker's March 20 statewide stay-at-home order forced a change in plans for the event, which had been planned for April 18.

Junior League volunteers instead delivered vital supplies Wednesday for 15 new moms who are patients at the family support center, located at Evanston Hospital. They included strollers, onesies, toys, playards, baby carriers and more, according to a spokesperson.

"The women and families served by our perinatal family support team are among the most vulnerable in our community," Kelly Jacobs, a perinatal support specialist said in a statement. "These women are often struggling with limited support and resources as they navigate their pregnancies. The Covid-19 pandemic has only made their struggles more acute. Our team is so excited about providing these supplies to our patients, who need help now more than ever."

In addition to the gifts, the nonprofit will provide educational materials about postpartum depression, lactation, newborn safety and other key topics. Those wishing to offer support to women participating in the Baby Steps shower may visit the league's charity shopping registry on an online marketplace or contact the group at jle-ns@sbcglobal.net or 847-441-0995.

"New mothers from underprivileged communities often face the trials of parenthood without any of the basic supplies that mothers with means take for granted," Junior League of Evanston-North Shore President Emily Coninx said in a statement. "Our provision of supplies, despite Covid-19 restrictions, sends an important message to these women that their families matter and deserve our support."