Being a parent is hard, especially when money is tight and certain baby supplies feel out of reach. Enter Baby Bear, a local initiative where Norwood parents share with Norwood parents. Resurrected by Stephanie Downs in December of 2018, Baby Bear happens twice a month and is an opportunity for parents to get clothes, toys, food, diapers and much more for free.
The way it works is that local citizens and organizations donate supplies, which are organized by Stephanie and her team, who in turn prepare a “shop” in the basement of Grace UMC church. Then, at the designated times, residents are invited to come through and get the supplies they need, no questions asked. There’s even a free meal provided!
In this episode, you’ll hear:
- The origin story of Baby Bear
- How the program works and who all is involved
- What Stephanie hopes this will become in the future
- and much more…
Listen here. ⬇️
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Subscribe: Google Podcasts | RSS
Selected links from Episode 4 about Baby Bear
Learn more about Moriah Pie, which is where I met Stephanie. It’s also her favorite local business / organization in town.
Connect with Norwood Ready Kids, which has several offerings that prepare local children for success in school
Shepherd Chemical is Stephanie’s employer and a prominent business located in Norwood.
Here is some additional reading about the link between literacy rates and incarceration.
Learn more about Woven Oak Initiatives, which exists to catalyze the common good in Norwood. The executive director of Woven Oak is Angela Pancella, who was a guest on Episode 2 about the Norwood Quality of Life Plan.
Three organizations that are big supporters of Baby Bear are the Norwood Fire Department, Valley Church and New City Presbyterian.
Stephanie’s favorite local business (besides Moriah Pie) is the dental office of Baron, Fennell, and Yoxthimer.
Action Items
Support Baby Bear by volunteering, donating or attending. Anyone is welcome — no questions asked. If you need the supplies, you can have them. Here’s the schedule:
- Second Wednesdays, 5-6pm
- Fourth Fridays, 9-10am
Start by sending a message to Baby Bear on Facebook.
—–
Move Norwood Forward aims to shed light on the people, businesses and happenings of Norwood, Ohio that are bettering the city. If you know of a person who should be featured on an episode, nominate them here.
Enjoyed doing this with you Jon! Thanks for bringing attention to Baby Bear Norwood!