Local Chapter Organizes In The Berkshires As "911" For Babies

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Understanding the stress economically challenged families face, Newborns in Need is located in cites and towns across the United States and foster community support of the newborn. Providing hand crafted, donated clothing and other essential items to premature and full term babies, Newborns In Need is a valued vehicle for communities to serve their tiniest citizen.

Newborns in Need now have a local chapter to help premature babies, newborns and their families in Western Massachusetts. "We believe this organization will make a difference in our area," says Donna Page, President of the Western Mass Chapter. "It can be very stressful for a family when a baby is born prematurely and often creates an unexpected financial burden to families and caregivers."

We exist because Newborns in Need, made up of volunteers across the United States, is dedicated to making sure that the teen mom, the stressed family, the mother overwhelmed in sadness is supported in the first moments of the child's life. The "911" for babies, Newborns In Need is the organization mobilized across the United States to offer baby items to those families that need help. Raising awareness, opening new chapters, Newborns In Need believes that communities can and will help each other if given a way to do so. Whether crafted with love by the hands of a volunteer or donated by others who understand that we need to take care of each other, Newborns In Need has positioned itself as the first response for all babies in crisis.

At this time the Western Mass chapter is seeking volunteers to knit, crochet, sew, quilt, and package store bought items that are warm, soft, and appropriately sized to be provided completely free of charge to hospitals, crisis centers, shelters, and pregnancy help centers as well as other social service agencies across Western Massachusetts.

Local board members include Heather Frost, Williamstown, Maureen Moore, North Adams and Lori Spencer, Florida, MA. For more information contact: Donna Page by phone at 413-884-6069 or email: westernmass@newbornsinneed.org.
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Pittsfield's Christian Center Rebrands as 'The Center'

By Brittany PolitoiBerkshires Staff

PITTSFIELD, Mass.— The Christian Center is becoming The Center, and assures the community that while the logo and name have changed, "Our heart has not." 

The rebrand was announced on Tuesday after months of listening sessions, community conversations, and surveys.  It was emphasized that the organization's heart, mission, and commitment to the community are unchanged. 

The Center will host its annual Community Day, including a name change celebration, on Aug. 22 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

"While our name is shifting, our core purpose remains steadfast. Alongside our new name, we are introducing our defining tagline—Nourish. Empower. Connect.—which reflects the three principles guiding everything we do," Executive Director Jessica Jones wrote in a newsletter. 

"Whether through our food pantry, meal program, free clothing boutique, or community events, our work remains focused on helping our neighbors access essential resources, build connections, and thrive."

The new logo features a fork, carrot, heart, and shirt, representing the pillars of The Center's service. 

The Christian Center was incorporated in 1974, but it dates back to the early 1890s, when it was the Epworth Mission, founded by the Methodist Church. 

Today, its main focus is food insecurity, but it also provides clothing, household items, and sanitary supplies to those who need them.  The Center operates a food pantry, upstairs free shop, and serves breakfast and lunch, as well as offering assistance in accessing resources. 

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