Baby, We’re Back! Downstate Revives Community Baby Shower for Brooklyn Families
By Office of Communications & Marketing | Jul 30, 2026
After several years, and a pause during the pandemic, Downstate brought back its Community Baby Shower, welcoming more than 100 expectant and new mothers and their families for a day of education, resources, and celebration.
Hosted by the Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Pediatrics, in partnership with the Office of Government & Community Relations, the event helped families prepare for the arrival of a new baby and connect them with Downstate’s maternal and pediatric services.
Mudar Dalloul, M.D., FACOG, Interim Chair of Obstetrics and Gynecology; Mohamed Nakeshbandi, M.D., Chief Medical Officer; and F. Charles Brunicardi, M.D., FACS, Dean of the College of Medicine, welcomed guests and spoke about the importance of accessible, high-quality maternal care and Downstate’s role in supporting mothers, babies, and families.
Families received guidance on pregnancy, childbirth, newborn care, maternal wellness, and available support services. They also had opportunities to ask questions, connect with healthcare and community partners, and meet other families preparing for the same exciting journey.
Guests toured Downstate’s ten newly renovated maternity suites, designed to provide greater privacy, comfort, and safety during postpartum recovery. The upgraded rooms include private bathrooms and showers, modern amenities, and sleeping accommodations for family members.
Alishia Goodridge, MLS, MBA, Assistant Vice President for Government & Community Relations, led the planning and coordination and helped secure donations for participating families. With support from the Office of Communications & Marketing, the team also obtained donated baby clothing. Members of the Downstate community generously contributed diapers, clothing, and other essentials.
Families received gift bags containing #KeepCareClose materials, pediatric and mother-baby health information, and details about Downstate’s services to help them prepare for their babies’ arrival.
Community partners included The GodSquad Clergy Academy, Council Member Rita Joseph, State Senator Zellnor Myrie, Assembly Member Brian Cunningham, MetroPlusHealth, and other organizations committed to supporting healthy families and children.
Guests also enjoyed refreshments, activities, prizes, raffles, and giveaways. The strong turnout showed the need for trusted maternal health resources close to home, and welcoming spaces where parents feel informed, supported, and celebrated.
The return of the Community Baby Shower reflects Downstate’s commitment to #KeepCareClose and to helping mothers and babies begin their lives together with excellent care, useful resources, and a strong circle of support.
A special thank-you to the Alumni Association for the College of Medicine for its generous in-kind support.
And a huge thank-you to Denise John, Transplant Services Staff Assistant, whose creativity transformed PHAB Hall into baby-shower bliss!
