Fort Liberty, NC—On September 21, Womack Army Medical Center hosted its semi-annual Maternity Fair, a gathering designed to support military families and new parents. The event attracted over 480 families, showcasing an array of resources and expert guidance aimed at fostering a healthy and joyful experience for parents and their newborns. This year, the fair was extended until 3 p.m. to allow attendees ample time to participate in educational classes and visit various booths representing Womack and local community services.
Engagement and Activities
The Maternity Fair offered an engaging environment for new parents and their families. Attendees had the opportunity to participate in various hands-on activities, including the popular “empathy belly” simulation, which allows partners to experience the physical sensations of pregnancy. Matthew Moman, a military spouse who accompanied his wife, reflected on the significance of the event, stating, “It’s been a great experience meeting all the different organizations here. I’m glad to know there are people who care about the military and newborns.” This interactive experience deepened his understanding of his partner’s journey, noting, “It was a different experience that made me more compassionate.”
Certified Nurse Midwife Whitney Maxwell explained the importance of such activities, saying, “It is a fun way to engage support persons in the ‘feeling’ of being pregnant.” The hands-on engagement promoted empathy among attendees, fostering stronger connections between partners.
A Wealth of Resources
The fair featured numerous booths and information stations where families could explore a wide range of resources available to them. Many attendees left feeling empowered and informed about the support options within their reach. Chris Jones, another participant, expressed amazement at the variety of resources offered, saying, “I didn’t know there were so many resources available for military spouses and families; it was very informational.”
This sentiment resonated with others, many of whom highlighted the event as an invaluable source of knowledge and community support. One of the most popular offerings was a baby massage class, which Jones described as “interesting,” noting the benefits of massage for relaxation, digestion, and overall well-being. “I didn’t realize how much my baby could benefit from massage,” he added.
Educational Classes
The Maternity Fair featured a diverse lineup of classes aimed at preparing parents for the challenges and joys of parenthood. Topics included birth plans, getting ready for baby, understanding purple crying, budgeting for a new family member, and safe sleep practices. These educational sessions provided parents with essential tools and knowledge to navigate the early stages of parenting confidently.
Heather Bonilla, a home visitor from the New Parent Support Program at Fort Liberty, emphasized the critical importance of safe sleep practices during her presentation. “The ABCs of safe sleep—alone, on their back, in their crib or in a safe sleep space with nothing extra in there with them—are crucial for reducing SIDS risk,” Bonilla explained. Her insights reinforced the event’s focus on ensuring that parents are well-informed about safety measures.
Community and Support
Womack Army Medical Center’s Maternity Fair stands as a testament to the institution’s dedication to supporting military families and new parents. The event not only provided resources but also fostered a sense of community among attendees. Families left feeling empowered and equipped to embark on their parenting journey with confidence.
The fair showcased the collaboration between Womack, local organizations, and community members, highlighting the collective effort to support military families during a transformative time in their lives. This approach not only addresses immediate needs but also helps to build lasting connections among families, enhancing the overall support network available to them.
Looking Ahead
Womack Army Medical Center is already planning the next Maternity Fair, scheduled for Saturday, April 26, 2025. The anticipation surrounding future events reflects the positive feedback from attendees and the ongoing commitment to providing valuable resources to military families.
For those interested in learning more about the services offered or participating in future events, Womack Army Medical Center encourages families to reach out via social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube, using the handle WomackAMC.
Conclusion
The Maternity Fair at Womack Army Medical Center not only provided essential information and resources but also cultivated a supportive community for military families. By prioritizing education and empathy, the event empowered new parents to navigate the complexities of parenthood with confidence and care. As families prepare for the upcoming Maternity Fair in April 2025, the spirit of support and collaboration within the military community continues to thrive, ensuring that every parent and child receives the guidance they need for a healthy start.
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