The program is entirely free of charge. That’s why this gift from Heritage is so important. It allows us to continue this vital community program.
Mindy Dame, MS, RN, director of WCS and OB-GYNHeritage Family Cares 4 You (HFCares4U) — a charitable foundation through Heritage Family Credit Union — awarded Southwestern Vermont Medical Center’s (SVMC) Baby Café program a $5,000 grant in December.
SVMC, a member of Dartmouth Health, launched Baby Café through its Women’s and Children’s Services (WCS) in 2024. The program is a free, drop-in, informal breastfeeding and social support group for parents, providing lunch and access to lactation experts.
SVMC’s Baby Café is licensed through Baby Café USA, a non-profit 501(c)(3) that works to reduce health disparities nationwide and help mothers realize their breastfeeding goals. SVMC’s Baby Café meets weekly at the Bennington Community Market, located at 239 Main St. It is open every Wednesday, from 11 am to 12:30 pm. SVMC’s lactation specialists provide support to moms and baby weigh-ins each week. It’s also a chance to connect and socialize.
“This program brings together 15-25 parents each week to enjoy a meal or snack and talk with professionals who can provide advice and guidance,” said Mindy Dame, MS, RN, director of WCS and OB-GYN. “The program is entirely free of charge. That’s why this gift from Heritage is so important. It allows us to continue this vital community program.”
This is only Baby Café location in Vermont.
“Baby Café is making such an impact in our greater Bennington community by supporting the physical and mental health of parents and babies,” said Tracy Adams, business development officer at Heritage Family Credit Union. “This work closely aligns with the mission of our foundation.”
You can find a full schedule of Baby Café at this link.