By Paige Gurgainers

Following the success of the annual Seed’s fundraising banquet, the women’s center is not slowing down. Coinciding with October being Safe Sleep Awareness month, Seed’s will be hosting a “Clear the Crib” event tomorrow, October 18, beginning at 10 a.m. at the center located at 402 Broadway Street in Minden.  

“We will be clearing the crib. Which means taking everything out of the crib other than the things that belong, which is only baby and pacifier,” said Executive Director of Seeds Amber Bradford. “We will discuss the ABCs of safe sleep – Alone, on my Back and in my Crib.”  

Between 2019 and 2021, 92 infant deaths were classified as SUIDS (Sudden Unexpected Infant Death) in Louisiana.  

Mayor Nick Cox will be doing a proclamation for Safe Sleep Awareness Day and Webster Parish Sheriff Jason Parker and Deputy Chief Tokia Harrison will also be here to support safe sleep. 

The fundraising banquet, held on October 8, drew a large crowd this year and raised $48,606 bringing them to a total of $51K and closer to their goal of $60K.  

“We are so thankful for everyone’s support of Seed’s Women’s Center and hope to continue to better serve our community and not only meet our goal, but surpass it,” said Bradford.  

This money will be used to revamp their new facility, previously known as the Ward Building. According to Bradford, this space is noticeably larger than their current location and will allow them to assist even more families and their children during their pregnancy and parenthood journey.  

Bradford continued, “We plan on closing on our new building on November 1 and will start renovations to make it perfect for our clients.” 

Seeds offers a multitude of services to the public free of charge including pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, parenting classes, counseling services, clothing and supplies.  

Bradford said, since 2020 the center has served 535 individuals across 911 client visits, providing 597 pregnancy tests and 760 ultrasounds. They have had 96 people enroll in parenting classes with 9 fathers graduating from the Navigating Fatherhood course offered on an annual basis.  

For those wanting to make donations and join in on their mission, please stop by the facility on 402 Broadway. Donations can also be made via their website www.seedswomenscenter.com/donate, or via PayPal @seedswc