HelloBaby Expands to Avalon Park! November 3, 2025

An early site visit with our design team from Perkins & Will.

We’re thrilled to share exciting news: HelloBaby has identified the site for our second location! 🎉

Our founder, Debbie Frisch, started HelloBaby after years as a short-term foster care provider, caring for more than 50 babies. During that time, she saw firsthand how access to early childhood resources could transform a child’s start in life — and how many families lacked that support.

That experience led her to create HelloBaby, a warm and welcoming space where caregivers can find community and children can play, explore, and grow. Since opening our first location in Woodlawn in 2017, we’ve seen the incredible impact of free play, connection, and access to essential items like diapers, wipes, and clothing. Each month, hundreds of families visit our space to laugh, learn, and build memories together.

Now, we’re excited to bring that same energy and mission to a new neighborhood. Our second HelloBaby location will open in Avalon Park, at 8507 S. Stony Island, with an anticipated opening in Spring 2026. The new space will mirror our Woodlawn model — complete with enriching programming, supportive resources, and even a nature garden for outdoor play.

This expansion represents more than just a new building; it’s part of our goal to eliminate “play deserts” across Chicago and ensure every child has access to joyful, developmentally rich experiences. We can’t wait to meet new families, strengthen community connections, and continue celebrating the power of play.

To read the full story by Tia Carol Jones, visit the Chicago Citizen article:
👉 HelloBaby Identifies Site for a Second Location

Stay tuned for more updates as we get closer to opening day — and thank you to everyone who continues to support HelloBaby’s mission. Together, we’re helping Chicago’s youngest learners grow, thrive, and shine. 💛