Bay Pines VA Staff, Volunteers Serve Women Veterans During Annual Baby Shower
PRESS RELEASE
May 7, 2024
BAY PINES , FL — On May 4, staff from the Bay Pines VA Healthcare System’s Women Veterans Program, along with volunteers and donors from the local community, showered new and expectant Veteran moms with baby gifts during the annual baby shower at the C.W. Bill Young VA Medical Center.
The event was a continuation of the display of gratitude that began on April 6 at the Lee County Healthcare Center in Cape Coral, Fla.
“This year we returned to an in-person event, and it’s the first time we’ve done so since the pandemic began,” said Bay Pines VA Women Veterans Program Manager Donna Sherman. “These women truly embody the spirit of selfless sacrifice, and I’m so proud we were able to welcome them into an environment filled with camaraderie and support.”
The event was open to Veterans who are receiving maternity care through Bay Pines VA, as well as their immediate family members. During the shower, attendees were gifted items like portable cribs, diaper bags, car seats, and baby clothes.
“The success of this event would not be possible without the generosity of our community partners” said Bay Pines VA Center for Development and Civic Engagement (CDCE) Chief Shanel Kelly. “We had newborn-related resources, family-friendly activities, and an abundance of gifts. I am so grateful to be part of a team that supports women Veterans as they embark on the exciting and life-altering journey that is motherhood.”
Between the events at C.W.Y. and Lee County, more than 54 new and expectant women Veteran mothers received support for the newest editions to their families. Bay Pines VA would like to thank the following organizations for their unwavering support this year:
- American Legion Post 273
- American Red Cross
- Elks of Largo Lodge 2159
- Elks of St. Petersburg Lodge 1224
- Gold Star Mothers Gulf Coast Chapter
- Disabled American Veterans Chapter 13
Bay Pines VA supports the health, welfare, and dignity of women Veterans and their families by ensuring equal access to timely, sensitive, and quality care. To learn more about our comprehensive health care options to support women Veterans, visit Bay Pines Women Veterans Program.
The goodwill, generosity, and valued partnerships with organizations and volunteers across our area has been critical to building a community of support in Southwest Florida for more than 90 years. You can visit our volunteer or donate page to learn more and get involved with our CDCE team.
For additional information on this release or future coverage opportunities, please contact Bay Pines VA Healthcare System Public Affairs Office at VHABAYPublicAffairs@va.gov. See the latest news, stories, and Veteran health care information on our official website and Facebook.
Michael Brock, Public Affairs Specialist
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