NYC Gazette

Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso has announced the first six recipients of funding from his Brooklyn Community Baby Shower Fund. This initiative, which began in August 2024, is supported by $50,000 in discretionary funding to aid community-led baby showers for new and expecting parents in Brooklyn. The fund provides up to $5,000 in matching funds for events scheduled before May 2025, focusing on neighborhoods with high maternal mortality and morbidity rates.

Two organizations, Expecting Relief and Rewrite Corp, have already hosted their baby showers this fall. Photos of these events are available online.

"Brooklyn is at its best when we support one another," said Reynoso. He emphasized that the funded organizations have shown a strong commitment to their communities and expressed anticipation for their upcoming events.

Reynoso's administration has prioritized addressing disparities in maternal health since January 2021. In his first year as Borough President, he allocated $45 million of capital funding to Brooklyn’s public hospitals for maternal health improvements—a historic move for a Borough President.

The Community Baby Shower Fund continues to accept applications. "The Community Baby Shower provides vital necessities to new and expectant parents like bibs and diapers," stated Nicole Bryan from the Brooklyn Public Library’s Macon Branch. Vanessa Bracetty from Expecting Relief highlighted the educational aspect of these events aimed at improving maternal and infant health.

Dr. Tyrone Stevenson from Hope Empowerment and Development Zone (HEADZ) expressed excitement about partnering with Reynoso’s office for family-centered community baby showers throughout 2025. Danielle Krupa from Moms for Moms praised the fund's role in supporting new parents with essential items during early parenthood.

Isabel Paz from NIA noted that these showers offer more than just material support—they foster community connections among mothers. Brenda Carter from Rewrite Corporation appreciated Reynoso's contribution to making these impactful events possible.

For those interested in applying or learning more about hosting a community baby shower, resources are available on the official website.