Parenthood is a journey like no other, filled with excitement, challenges, and endless love. At Heart of Florida United Way, we understand the importance of providing a strong foundation for our Central Florida community’s youngest members. That’s why we’re dedicated to supporting families every step of the way — including through our Annual Community Baby Shower, which provides parents and parents-to-be with important must-have items, resources and information that help them give their newborn the best start possible.

In today’s world, this initiative is more important than ever. In 2022, common expenses for a baby’s first year now exceed $15,000 — thanks to rising inflation — and baby-related expenses make up approximately 27% of the average family’s home, according to Baby Center.

That’s why we need your help to support our Central Florida families. Here’s how you can join us in making a difference:

Participate in the Basics for Baby Collection Drive: We need your help collecting diapers, wipes, and formula for our Community Baby Shower families. Collect your items and drop them off with Heart of Florida United Way, so we can gift them to families in need.

Make a Donation: Every dollar counts in setting up our community’s little ones for success.

Roll Up Your Sleeves and Volunteer: We’re looking for volunteers to help us prepare for our upcoming Community Baby Shower. Volunteer opportunities include:

🍼 Blanket Making Party: Tuesday, June 11 at 9 a.m.
Join fellow volunteers to work in small groups as we make blankets for Community Baby Shower. These no-sew fleece blankets are beginner and family friendly!

🍼 Community Baby Shower Preparation Packing: Tuesday, June 25 at 10 a.m. and Friday, June 28 at 10 a.m.
Help Heart of Florida United Way prepare for one of the biggest community events of the year. Items will be organized for the next day’s Community Baby Shower.

🍼 Community Baby Shower Set Up: Wednesday, June 26 at 2 p.m. (Kissimmee) and Saturday, June 29 at 7 a.m. (Orlando)
Help Heart of Florida United Way create an impactful experience for our families attending the 2024 Community Baby Shower!

🍼 Community Baby Shower Breakdown: Wednesday, June 26 at 7:30 p.m. (Kissimmee) and Saturday, June 29 at 12 p.m. (Orlando)
Help Heart of Florida United Way close out our 2024 Community Baby Shower.

Looking for more opportunities to volunteer? We’ll be updating this list as Community Baby Shower volunteer opportunities become available. You can also always find an up-to-date list of all HFUW volunteer opportunities here.