STREETWISE September 29, 2024

Discover HelloBaby: Transforming Play Deserts into Joyful Havens for Families

When Selena Potter first discovered HelloBaby, she had no idea it would become a “second home” for her and her granddaughter, Cian. The brightly colored storefront at 61st Street and St. Lawrence Avenue drew her in, and she has been a regular visitor ever since. Potter, who has a degree in education, appreciates the safe environment where both adults and children can socialize and learn.

HelloBaby, founded by Debbie Frisch in 2017, is the nation’s first free-standing, free-of-charge drop-in play space for young children and their caregivers. Frisch, who experienced childhood trauma and later fostered 56 children, created HelloBaby to provide a nurturing space for early childhood development. The center has hosted over 28,000 play visits, offering activities like circle-time, storytelling, and music time.

The play space is designed with nature themes and natural colors to compensate for the limited access to outdoor play in the neighborhood. HelloBaby aims to prepare children for kindergarten and support their cognitive, social, and emotional development. The center also provides a no-judgment zone for caregivers to connect, share concerns, and receive support.

HelloBaby is funded by private donations and grants, with families often donating items their children have outgrown. The center also supports migrant families, offering basic necessities and emotional support despite language barriers.

Frisch plans to expand HelloBaby beyond Woodlawn, with a new location in West Englewood and hopes to inspire similar programs nationwide. The community’s embrace of HelloBaby is key to its success, providing a collaborative environment where families feel welcomed and supported.

Read the full article by Citlalli Magali Sotelo in the September 25 – October 1, 2024 Vol. 32 No. 36 edition of StreetWise.

https://hellobabychgo.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Sept25-Oct12024_COMP.pdf

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