MANSFIELD – The Community Health Access Project (CHAP), alongside healthcare and community partners from across Richland County, will host the 2026 Richland County Community Baby Shower on Thursday, Oct. 8, from noon to 3 p.m. at the Mid-Ohio Conference Center in Mansfield.
Expecting parents, new parents, caregivers, and families are encouraged to register and attend the free community event, which will bring healthcare, education, family resources, and community support together under one roof.
Families can register online through Eventbrite:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/richland-county-community-baby-shower-tickets-1991501514640
“We really want families to come out and take advantage of everything that will be available,” said Brice Eyerly, Executive Director of CHAP.
“This isn’t just about picking up information or visiting tables. It’s an opportunity to meet the people and organizations that are here to support you during pregnancy, after your baby arrives, and as your family grows.”
The Community Baby Shower will feature local healthcare providers, community organizations, early childhood resources, educational opportunities, family activities, giveaways, and information about programs available throughout the region.
Educational topics include pregnancy, infant care, safe sleep, breastfeeding, nutrition, and maternal wellness.
Families can also connect directly with organizations that provide assistance with healthcare, insurance, housing, transportation, food access, mental health, parenting support, and other needs.
“For us, the Community Baby Shower is really about making connections,” Eyerly said. “There are so many great organizations in our community doing work to support moms, babies, and families.
“We want people to know those resources exist, meet the people behind them, and know where they can turn when they need support.”
The Community Baby Shower continues a longstanding collaborative effort in Richland County to support healthy pregnancies, healthy babies, and stronger families. CHAP stepped into the coordinating role for the event in 2024 and has continued to grow the event alongside healthcare providers and community partners.
This year’s event is made possible through the support and participation of organizations throughout the community, including platinum sponsors Avita Health System, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, UnitedHealthcare, OhioHealth, Mid-Ohio Educational Service Center, and Community Health Access Project, along with additional sponsors and participating organizations.
“We couldn’t do this without our community partners,” Eyerly said. “Healthcare organizations, nonprofits, businesses, educators, and community organizations are all coming together around the same goal: making sure families know they have support right here in their community.”
Registration is encouraged. Families can register at:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/richland-county-community-baby-shower-tickets-1991501514640
Additional information about the event is available at:
https://chap-ohio.com/community-baby-shower
About Community Health Access Project
Founded in Mansfield in 1999, the Community Health Access Project (CHAP) developed the original Pathways Community HUB model, an evidence-based approach to identifying individuals at greatest risk, connecting them with Community Health Workers, addressing barriers to care, and measuring outcomes.
Today, CHAP works with healthcare organizations, managed care organizations, and community-based partners across North Central Ohio to help individuals
and families access the care and resources they need.