Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
The BABE Boutique is seeking families with young children to participate in the First Annual Baby Buggy Walk-A-Thon to help raise awareness and funds for the Beds and Britches Etc. program of the Health Care Foundation of Kosciusko County.
The BABE program is an incentive program that encourages pregnant women to get early and consistent pre-natal care to decrease the occurrence of low birth weight and infant mortality. Participating parents receive coupons when utilizing health and wellness programs offered in Kosciusko County, including many doctors and health clinics, Heartline Pregnancy Center, WIC and others. The coupons may then be redeemed at the BABE Boutique, 119 E. Center St., Warsaw, for new items needed to care for infants and toddlers.
The Baby Buggy Walk-A-Thon is a non-competitive walk through Central Park and downtown Warsaw. Walkers are encouraged, but not required, to bring their families, including younger children in a stroller for safety, and to raise donations for the program. Pledge forms are available at: Provident Family Healthcare, Cardinal Center Children's Programs, Heartline Pregnancy Center, Pediatric Healthcare, Dr. Christian Sessa's office, Kosciusko Family Healthcare, North Webster Medical Clinic, Walnut Creek United Methodist Church and Celebration Church.
Participants are not required to raise a minimum amount, and pledges are made for participation rather than distance walked. All money pledged, accompanied by a pledge form, must be turned in the day of the event. Participants who raise $100 or more will receive a free T-shirt. The top three fundraisers may choose from the following prizes: a Simplicity all-wood crib, which converts into a toddler bed, with an attached dresser; a day of pampering at Expressions Salon and Day Spa; or Kosciusko Cash Certificates from the Warsaw/Kosciusko County Chamber of Commerce, good at many local businesses.
There is no pre-registration or registration fee. Register the morning of the event and bring your donations with you. Registration begins at 8 a.m. at the shelter in Central Park, with activities planned for the children of those who arrive early. The walk begins at 9 a.m.
Tracie Smith Hodson, director of the Health Care Foundation, said, "The success of the Baby Buggy Walk-A-Thon depends on the public. Individuals who walk and raise pledges are the key to helping BABE continue to help the young families of our community by providing incentives for parents to make healthy choices for their children and the family as a whole. Nothing is better than spending time with your family and friends - so recruit a group to walk with you."
For more information, pick up a pledge form at one of the participating locations, or call the Foundation, 574-268-CARE (574-268-2273), or e-mail healthcare@kconline.com
