United Way’s Community Baby Shower Kicks Off May 1

The United Way of Chautauqua County’s annual Community Baby Shower kicks off May 1, 2026

The collection drive for United Way’s Community Baby Shower kicks off on May 1.

The Community Baby Shower ensures that families have the resources they need to give their children a healthy start in life.

Last year, the United Way received donations totaling $8,760. All monetary gifts were used to purchase essential items for moms and babies. Those purchases, along with all physical donations, were then distributed to those in need through United Way’s network of community partner agencies.
The 2026 Community Baby Shower will run May 1 through June 11. New baby items can be dropped off at any of the following collection sites:

• United Way’s Jamestown office at 208 Pine Street.
• United Way’s Dunkirk office at 626 Central Ave.
• M&T Bank in Jamestown at 737 Foote Ave.
• M&T Bank in Fredonia at 1 E. Main Street.
• Northwest Arena at 319 West Third Street in the city of Jamestown.
• Patterson Library at 40 S. Portage Street in the village of Westfield.
• Bemus Point Golf Course & Tap House at 72 Main Street in Bemus Point (May 1st through May 11th only)

Donations can also be made online by credit card, or by purchasing items directly from United Way’s Amazon Wish List, which features the top-needed items as identified by UWCHQ’s partner agencies. To learn more, text “BabyUnited” to 41444.

Beyond making donations, local businesses and community organizations can participate in several ways:

• Become a drop-off site. Expand access to the drive by hosting a collection point at your location.
• Host an in-office baby shower. Invite your team to bring baby items, play games, and celebrate the spirit of giving — all while building camaraderie and supporting local families. UWCHQ provides a toolkit to help get your event started and will recognize participating businesses on social media.
• Become a sponsor. Sponsors receive recognition across United Way’s social media, print materials, press releases, website, and community PSAs throughout the campaign.

To learn more about any of these opportunities, contact Nick Dean at ndean@unitedwaychq.org. A “How to Host a Baby Shower” toolkit and 2026 sponsorship form are available online at www.UnitedWayCHQ.org.