LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) – Expecting moms are also probably expecting to see a major shift in their budget. A Lubbock organization not only wants to help them afford this life change but help them navigate it.
The Nest is a free program offering expecting mothers a way to earn points toward baby supplies, while also receiving prenatal education.
It’s just inside the south entrance of the YWCA at University Avenue and 66th Street. The Nest is operated by the Larry Combest Community Health and Wellness Center, a nonprofit run by the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Nursing.
Coordinator Marilyn Cole says applicants don’t need to bring any documentation to register and it takes only minutes to complete.
“We accept anyone that is pregnant, no matter if it’s the first child or the 10th child,” Cole said.
Once enrolled, participants bring their booklet provided by The Nest to their prenatal appointments and educational classes at the Parenting Cottage to earn points. Those points can be redeemed at The Nest for baby items ranging from bottles to bassinets.
“And we try to have at least everything that a new mom would need to bring home the baby,” Cole said.
Points can also be earned after the baby is born up until they are 15 months old, like through going to check-ups for baby, dentist appointments, and breastfeeding.
“Diapers are pretty expensive, and they, some of our customers, they’d rather hold all of their points just for diapers and wipes,” Cole said.
Cole said the educational component of the program is often what has the most impact on participants.
“One of the questions that they ask in the class is, what do you want to get out of the class? And they’ll say, well, everything, because they don’t have any idea of what’s coming,” Cole said.
Cole said encouraging medical care for moms and babies is a central goal of the program.
“We want them to make those doctor appointments because it’s so important for prenatal care and to have a healthy baby and healthy outcome,” Cole said.
‘The Nest’ is open Monday through Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Cole says to call ahead at (806)-743-6667 to make an appointment.
The Nest also accepts donations of new items to help stock its supply inventory. It’s also looking for partners to help with funding.
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