Family and Parenting Exhibit at St. Catharines’ Pen Center Ensures No Tramp Goes Naked

There are many lessons that come soon after the arrival of a first child. One of them: how many diapers does a baby go through.

An event later this month in the back parking lot of the Pen Center will not only bring together more than 100 vendors for families, but it will support an organization that ensures that no family goes without diapers. Organized by the Niagara Mommy and Me Playgroup, the exhibit will support No Bare Bums Niagara.

“I’ve seen how quickly parents can use these products,” said event organizer Janice Duerksen. A single mother, she said she understands how difficult it can be for some families to afford to continue to stock up on nappies.

No Bare Bums Niagara is a non-profit organization that helps families in financial difficulty by providing diapers and other care items.

About 15 years ago, Duerksen and a small group of moms began meeting regularly in their backyard, which led to the founding of the Mommy and Me Playgroup. Eventually, they started to organize events, like the spring exhibition.

Over the years, the exhibition overtook a few places and became a major event. However, like most events, when COVID-19 hit they had to cancel. But with the easing of restrictions, Duerksen is delighted to be able to host him again.

The event will take place Saturday, May 28 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday, May 29 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the back parking lot of the Pen Centre. Although hosting the event outdoors brings unpredictable weather into play, Duerksen said the larger space allows them to spread out more so it can be more welcoming to people who still want to maintaining COVID safety distance and protocols.

There are over 100 vendor spaces with a variety that Duerksen says will appeal to the whole family. There will also be inflatables, character tours, food and refreshments, face painting, a children’s play area, bake sale, silent auction, raffles and more.

The event will not only support No Bare Bums Niagara, but will also help send kids to summer camp. Duerksen said they wanted to help both the younger kids and some of the older kids who can often be overlooked.

There are still some vendor spaces available, Duerksen said. For more information, email evanloveshismommy@yahoo.ca or visit the Spring 2022 Family and Parenting Expo Facebook page.

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