By Jennifer Theurer

The Republic County Health Department invites all Republic County expectant families and families with babies from newborn to 4-months-old to attend the Community Baby Shower from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. February 14 at the Wesleyan Church in Belleville.

RCHD Administrator Faye Jones said this free event provides families with education and resources to promote happy, healthy babies and caregivers.

Families will receive information about physical safety, nutrition, maternal mental health, and car seats, among other topics. Providers such as Medicaid agencies and Republic County health firms will give brief talks about the services and resources they offer. 

Vendors have been encouraged to bring door prizes and Jones said attendees typically leave with diapers and wipes but may also receive a portable crib, foldable wagon or stroller. The RCHD works to make sure all attendees receive a prize that will be of help to them as they raise their babies.

Those Republican County residents who would like to attend need to call RCHD at 785-527-5671 to RSVP by February 12.