Preparing for a strong start, every step of the way
For new and expectant parents, the cost of baby care items can add stress and worry to an already vulnerable time. OneWorld’s Baby Boutique was set up to counter that financial stress – while providing parents an extra incentive to attend important health care appointments.
Kira Simons, a OneWorld employee and patient, found the Baby Boutique valuable as she was preparing for the arrival of her daughter Paloma a year and a half ago. Because her first child was older, Kira said her experience with Paloma felt new again, and there was a lot to relearn.
“When I went to the Baby Boutique, they had everything there. I was like, ‘Oh yeah, I need that!’” Kira said. “It’s just so cheap compared to if you go to a store. It was just really nice. I really appreciated that.”
Using Baby Bucks earned for attending prenatal and postpartum appointments, Kira was able to purchase essentials for her baby – including clothes, diapers, wipes, bibs, bottles and nursing pads.
And she’s not alone in using the Baby Boutique. Last year, 2,696 people shopped the boutique, according to Volunteer Specialist Leslie Ibarra. That’s up about 400 patients from 2023 – and the number is expected to increase again this year as prices for baby care items rise.
Ibarra said the Baby Boutique helps parents get a good start for their newborn babies. It’s a powerful service for patients coming in the door.
“I really love to hear my moms that come in and, they’re greeted very well by not just me, but my volunteers, and they’re treated well,” Ibarra said. “We’re just making sure that we’re stocked up with any type of items they need, so anytime when they walk in the door of the Baby Boutique, they’re able to take something.”
Kira’s positive experience at OneWorld extended beyond the Baby Boutique to the prenatal care she received from her health care team. As she prepared for Paloma’s arrival, her providers helped put her at ease and made it easy for her to stay in touch with them.
That care is important, and it’s at the heart of the Baby Boutique’s existence. With baby essentials as incentives, the Baby Boutique encourages new parents to seek early and consistent prenatal care. Prenatal care reduces the risk of pregnancy complications, improves birth outcomes and provides maternal health education.
And at OneWorld, the Maternal Health team is with their patients every step of the way.
“I’ve always been treated with respect by the providers here, so that’s something I really appreciate,” Kira said. “I just feel like they took such good care of me.”
Give babies a warm welcome during Onesies for OneWorld
Help our tiniest patients get a strong start during our Onesies for OneWorld drive, when each dollar now through Feb. 21 directly supports new babies and their parents. To donate, text Onesies2025 to 41444 or visit www.oneworldomaha.org/onesies.