A free community baby shower will be held this Thursday to support families and promote the well-being of mothers and children in Rochester. The event is organized by Molina Healthcare of New York in partnership with the Ibero-American Action League.
The initiative aims to connect families with vital resources and support to help raise healthy children. Joiel Ray-Alexander, associate vice president of community growth and engagement at Molina, emphasized the importance of keeping mothers healthy, saying, “When moms are happy and healthy, it uplifts the entire community.”
The need for such an event is clear, Ray-Alexander added. Statistics show that the infant mortality rate in Monroe County is significantly higher for Hispanic and Black children compared to white infants. Hispanic infants are twice as likely to face mortality, and Black infants are three times more likely. Additionally, low birthweight rates are a concern for both Hispanic and Black babies, according to data from the state’s health department.
“Many families are struggling to meet basic needs, such as food and housing,” Ray-Alexander said. “Events like this baby shower help bridge that gap, providing essential resources to those who need it most.”
The event will not only offer information and resources but also provide essential infant supplies. Families will receive items like baby bottles, blankets, medicine spoons, mini hot-and-cold packs, and thermal tote bags, while supplies last.
The baby shower will take place from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Ibero’s Community Resource Center, located at 216 Clifford Avenue. Ray-Alexander also shared that Molina Healthcare plans to host similar events regularly in the Rochester area.
“It’s all about an equation,” she said. “Healthy children, healthy moms, healthy families, and healthy communities. Everyone benefits.”
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