Waldo County YMCA Introduces ‘Bumps and Babies’ Support Group for Parents and Caregivers

Waldo County YMCA Launches New Support Program for New and Expecting Parents

The Waldo County YMCA, in collaboration with Maine Families of Waldo County and the CDC Public Health Nursing, has announced the introduction of a new initiative aimed at supporting new and expecting parents. Named “Bumps & Babies,” this community-oriented support group will cater to parents and caregivers of infants, toddlers, and young children.

The Bumps & Babies program is scheduled to take place on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, from 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m., at the Waldo County YMCA, located at 157 Lincolnville Avenue, Belfast. The upcoming sessions will be held on October 14 and 28; November 11 and 25; and December 9 and 23, 2025.

Designed to foster connection and resource-sharing among participants, Bumps & Babies provides a welcoming environment where parents and caregivers can gather to share experiences, seek encouragement, and find valuable resources. “Each session fosters meaningful connections—because community can make all the difference in a parent’s journey,” stated a representative from the YMCA.

Russell Werkman, the CEO of the Waldo County YMCA, emphasized the importance of community support in parenting, reflecting on his own experience. “My wife and I were fortunate to have a network of support as we navigated the challenges of parenting. We want to offer similar opportunities to others who may not have that kind of guidance,” he said. The program aims to create a nurturing space where individuals can feel seen, supported, and empowered.

The group will cover a range of pertinent topics including, but not limited to, maternal mental health, infant care and feeding, accessing community resources, and building family resilience. Parents, caregivers, and fathers are encouraged to attend, aligning with the primary goal of the initiative: to foster community-building, facilitate resource-sharing, and promote mutual support among participants.

One organizer expressed the necessity of community ties, stating, “Having a supportive network can be a make-or-break factor for parents. We’re committed to showing up for one another, and we encourage others to do the same.”

To register for Bumps & Babies or to inquire further about the program, interested individuals can reach out to Bri Fokine at (207) 975-5168 or via email at brianne.fokine@maine.gov.

The Waldo County YMCA remains dedicated to enhancing community well-being through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. It underscores its commitment to ensuring that individuals from all backgrounds have the opportunity to thrive. For more information about their offerings, visit their official website at www.waldocountyymca.org.

In conclusion, the Bumps & Babies program at the Waldo County YMCA stands as a vital resource for parents during the challenging early years of child-rearing, emphasizing the power of community support to enhance family resilience and well-being.