Families with small children, and those expecting, could find information and freebies Thursday at the Barton County Health Department’s fourth annual “Community Baby Shower” in Jack Kilby Square.

There were giveaways and drawings, and free water for those who braved the heat. The Family Crisis Center had snow cones.

Organizations were able to let parents know where to turn when they need information or assistance on a variety of topics at this fun, free educational event. 

“We had 26 booths beside the Health Department and Kansas Children’s Service (co-sponsors),” said Vicki Richardson with Kansas Children’s Service - Healthy Families. “We did have to end at 5:15 p.m. due to a thunderstorm moving into the area.”

Parents that have KanCare through United Healthcare (a Managed Care Organization) received free pack and play playpens directly from that booth after participating in the Safe Sleep training offered by the Great Bend Fire Department/EMS.

They also had Daddy Relay Races, said Beverly Frizell at the Health Department. “Dads had to buckle a doll in a stroller, push the stroller to the table, take the doll out, change its diaper, and then had to correctly buckle the doll in a car seat. After completion, dad received a book about fatherhood.”