Beds and Britches Etc.

Mary Wimmenauer has seen a significant increase in the number of families using the Beds and Britches, Etc., store, where patrons trade vouchers to "purchase" necessities for babies and children. While other agencies are concerned when client numbers increase, those at Bed and Britches, Etc., commonly known as BABE, are happy to see more families using the store. That's because the increased number of clients means that more expectant mothers are seeking parental care and more parents are learning about responsible parenting.

   BABE is a community-based incentive program for pregnant women and families with children up to age five who live in Daviess County. The program promotes child wellness and resonsible parenting and supports families in their efforts to give their children the best possible start. Familes who complete programs that promote healthy prenatal and child care offered by local agencies are given vouchers, which can be traded at the BABE store for things like clothing, diapers, car seats, and furniture.

   There has been a significant increase in the number of families enrolled in Women Infant Children (WIC) nutrition classes, childbirth classes at Daviess Community Hospital, family nutrition planning at the Daviess County Purdue Cooperative Extension and immunization clinics, according to Wimmenauer, Daviess County coordinator for Beds and Britches, Etc., due, in part, to the Daviess County Community Foundation.

   "The Foundation is the largest financial supporter of this program," said Wimmenauer. "Grants help purchase the clothing, diapers, car seats, and other types of merchandise necessary to stock the BABE store." The Foundation has funded the program several times in the past.