With the opening of their new Buggy Bunch Family Center, the Christian-based nonprofit has breathed new life into the former Vero Furniture Mart building at the corner of 21st Street and 15th Avenue. To celebrate the occasion, they recently hosted a donor party and a community open house.
According to their website, the goal of the Family Center is for it to be “a one-stop resource for moms and their families to receive free programming and services to support their physical, mental and spiritual health where they can expand the number of families served.”
The organization offers educational playgroups, faith development, mentoring, family outings, fitness and nutrition, social outings, marriage enrichment, food support, speakers, and a Diaper Haven. Where once they met at local churches, all activities will be housed at the Vero Beach facility except for Fellsmere programs, which will continue at the Fellsmere Community Bible Church.
Through determination and hard work, the Buggy Bunch raised enough money to purchase the building in 2017, and during ensuing years raised additional funds for the renovations, enabling them to open the Family Center debt-free.
Tara Wright, Buggy Bunch executive director, explained that the organization began in 2009 with “four moms pushing strollers over a bridge for friendship and fitness. They quickly realized the need and the interest of other moms to connect and support one another, while building their relationship with Christ.”
Fast forward to 2021, and “here we are. The Buggy Bunch has now grown into a thriving nonprofit organization serving thousands of clients over the last decade through various programs and services,” added Wright.
During a ribbon-cutting ceremony, Wright noted that the Family Center was “6,000 square feet of hope. A place for transformation and support and community.”
Before cutting the ribbon, State Rep. Erin Grall told the invited guests: “This is the time where sometimes it feels like families get marginalized and they’re not supported, and they’re not held up as the backbone of our country, of this civilization, and we know that they are.
You show what communities can do. The government doesn’t have to get involved. This is what community can do when they come together and support each other, and that’s really what makes for a better state.”
A tour of the facility begins off the front lobby, where mothers can park their strollers near an impressive donor wall and grab a cup of java at the coffee bar, before heading in for programs and playgroups.
A nature-themed Learning Loft engages children ages 3 and up with its bridge, tunnel, loft, reading corner, grocery store, LEGO wall and play area. Across the hall, a Learning Lab for children from infancy to age 3 is home to an interactive station and an infant ball pit.
Trained childcare workers supervise the children’s areas so moms can focus on the programs they wish to attend.
The building also houses a multipurpose room with remote meeting capabilities and a community room for parenting seminars, bible studies, marriage seminars and summer movie days. The Diaper Haven is available for mothers living at or below the poverty level who need help with diapers, wipes and formula. Leaving room for growth, a 4,000-square-foot second-floor balcony was left undeveloped.
For information about programs, classes and fundraisers, visit thebuggybunch.com.
Photos by Kaila Jones
