When I moved to New Westminster, I was drawn to the warmth of the community. It seemed like the perfect place to start a family. I imagined joining baby groups, meeting other parents, and building lifelong friendships—just like my mom did when I was a kid.
But life had other plans.
In early 2020, I found out I was pregnant. While we were overjoyed, the pandemic soon turned our world upside down. Instead of baby groups and shared milestones, my husband and I spent the year in isolation. My pregnancy was celebrated through screens, my baby shower was on Zoom, and maternity leave loomed as a lonely, uncertain time.
Our son was born on Halloween, 2020. As fireworks lit the sky outside Royal Columbian Hospital, it felt like the world celebrated with us. But once we returned home, reality set in. No baby groups. No park meetups. No opportunities to find the community I had envisioned.
Then, in the spring, everything changed. I discovered New West Family Place. They were offering in-person baby programs—safely—at Queen’s Park.
I’ll never forget our first day there. My son saw other babies for the first time. I met other parents. We sang songs, clapped hands, and shared smiles. For the first time in months, I felt part of something bigger than just the four walls of my house. It was the moment I had been longing for.
That one hour each week became my anchor. It wasn’t just about playtime for my son; it was about connection for me. The staff welcomed us like family, even holding my son so I could enjoy a rare moment of peace.
New West Family Place gave me my community back when I needed it most.
Now, as New Westminster grows, so do the challenges families face. Parenthood can be isolating at the best of times, and many families in our city are navigating even more complex challenges. That’s why programs like those at New West Family Place are so important—they provide a lifeline, a sense of belonging, and a little joy in what can feel like an overwhelming journey.
We want to ensure every family in New West has access to the same support I did, and that’s where you come in.
Join Us in Supporting Families
This year, we’re running an End-of-Year Campaign to expand our programming in 2025. We’ve already reached 11% of our goal, but we need your help to make it all the way.
Here’s how your donation can make a difference:
💙 $50 helps support a baby circle, offering parents moments of connection.
💚 $100 funds playtime programs that bring joy to kids and community to parents.
💛 $250 ensures these programs stay accessible so no family is left behind.
Parenthood is lighter when we have each other. New West Family Place has been that support for so many families, including mine. With your help, they can continue to bring light, connection, and community to even more parents and children in the years ahead.
Donate Now to help us build a brighter future for families in New Westminster.
Together, we can ensure every family feels the love and support of this amazing community.
Warmly,
A Grateful Parent