Florida Department of Health's 2025 Bump and Beyond celebrates parenthood and preparedness

Bump and Beyond: A Community Celebration of Parenthood and Preparedness

By Last Updated

On April 12, 2025, the Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County (DOH-Hillsborough) hosted a community baby shower, “Bump and Beyond: Thriving Through Pregnancy,” at the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County. The event brought together approximately 70 registered participants for a day of connection, education and support for parents at every stage of their pregnancy journey.

This unique event was open to families who were planning for pregnancy, currently expecting or had recently welcomed a new addition to the family. Parents enjoyed interactive sessions designed to inform and empower them, met local organizations, learned about resources and built new connections. AdventHealth generously sponsored Breakfast and lunch.

Highlights included:

  • Doula support and birth planning: Ankita Patel from REACHUP Inc. guided parents on community doula services and creating personalized birth plans. Samantha Freed from Humanly Well led breathing and stretching techniques for labor.
  • Parenting support & baby CPR: Paola Galarza from Healthy Start Parents helped families identify support networks. Dana Jackson from DOH-Hillsborough demonstrated infant and child CPR techniques.
  • Safe baby education: Paola shared tips for safe sleep environments and coping strategies for stressful moments, including a story about shaken baby syndrome.
  • Breastfeeding 101: Marcela Jimenez-Ramirez, a certified lactation counselor and director of health and wellness at Metropolitan Ministries, provided guidance on starting breastfeeding, proper latching techniques and information on local support.
  • Nutrition through pregnancy: Charlene Laping from WIC emphasized healthy eating before, during and after pregnancy for both mom and baby. Most health care providers recommend that pregnant women take prenatal vitamins and mineral supplements every day in addition to eating a healthy diet.
Over 20 different partner organizations provide resources, education and goodies for Bump and Beyond.
Over 20 different partner organizations provide resources, education and goodies for Bump and Beyond.

Every parent left with a diaper bag that doubles as a travel bassinet. The bassinet is not only practical and convenient but serves as a reminder for parents to choose safe sleep environments for their little ones.

“Bump and Beyond” was more than an event about being a resourceful parent; it was a celebration of community and parenthood. We thank all volunteers, speakers and organizations who made this day unforgettable.

Missed “Bump and Beyond 2025”? Join us this spring for “Bump & Beyond: Little Bellies, Big Nutrition,” a community workshop about breastfeeding, formula feeding and introducing solids with hands-on guidance, trusted resources and expert-led support. All families are welcome. We look forward to seeing you there!

Our Compass Program that helps residents find help for non-clinical issues, is present to help attendees connect with resources.
Our Compass Program, a screening and referral assistance program that helps residents find help for non-clinical issues, is present to help attendees connect with resources.

RELATED:
A Village of Support: How parenting workshops provide support, education and confidence
Supporting Pregnant and Postpartum Moms: Mental Health Matters

*Presented by Florida Department of Health | Originally published in the March 2026 issue of Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine.