Supporting parents. Strengthening families. Building brighter futures.
Welcome Baby empowers Durham families with free parenting classes, child safety education, and essential resources that help every child grow up safe, healthy, and ready to learn.
- Serving Durham families since 1987
- Programs in English and Spanish
- Free classes & community support
Helping Durham Families Thrive
Welcome Baby is a program of Durham County Cooperative Extension, supported by funds from Durham County Government, Durham’s Partnership for Children a Smart Start initiative and The Duke Endowment. Our mission is to strengthen families through education, connection, and practical support. Each year, thousands of parents and caregivers turn to Welcome Baby for guidance, community, and essential items that help their children grow and thrive.
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Parenting Classes
Free, evidence-based workshops like Incredible Years, Triple P, Motheread, and Nurturing Fathers help parents build confidence, learn new skills, and strengthen the bonds within their families.
Parenting Classes -
Child Safety Education
Hands-on car seat and crib safety programs teach parents and caregivers practical ways to keep children safe, secure, and protected from infancy through every stage of early childhood.
Child Safety -
The Giving Closet
Families can receive clothing, diapers, and baby gear generously donated by the community, providing comfort, relief, and meaningful support for Durham parents and families in need.
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Community Support
Support groups and volunteer opportunities connect parents and neighbors together to share experiences, gain encouragement, and build a stronger, healthier, and more caring community overall.
Community Support
Upcoming Classes & Events
All classes are free for Durham County families. Many are offered in English and in Spanish.
New class dates are posted here as they are scheduled. To hear about the next class, fill out an interest form on any parenting class or child safety class page, or call us at 919-560-7150.
What Families Are Saying
“I just left the Welcome Baby Giving Closet event and it was an amazing experience! The team was so friendly and informative. I feel more confident as a new mom.”
Alexis W.
“The car seat training was exceptionally informative. After the class, we made adjustments that will make transportation safer. Thank you for all you do.”
Erin
Our Impact
Making a difference in Durham
For 35+ years, Welcome Baby has partnered with parents, schools, healthcare providers, and community organizations to ensure every child in Durham has a strong start.
Impact Highlights:
- 3,000+ families supported each year
- 800+ car seats distributed annually
- 1,000+ children received clothing and essentials from the Giving Closet
- 100% of families report feeling more confident as parents
Ways to Get Involved
Your time, donations, and support make a real difference. Every contribution, whether it’s a bag of clothes, a few volunteer hours, or a financial gift, goes directly to families right here in Durham.
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Donate
Give funds or new and gently used items that help provide cribs, car seats, diapers, and clothing for local families. Every contribution directly supports children in Durham.
Donate -
Volunteer
Support our team by assisting in the Giving Closet, helping with parenting workshops, or volunteering at community events that strengthen families across Durham County.
Volunteer -
Host a Drive
Rally your workplace, church, or community group to collect diapers, clothing, and other essentials for Durham families. Your efforts make a meaningful difference for local parents.
Host a Drive
Our Mission & Team
Our mission is to empower Durham families with children birth to 17 years by offering accessible, evidence-based resources, positive parenting education, and practical support. We work to reduce Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), strengthen family bonds, and build brighter futures for every child.
Behind every class, event, and family success story is a compassionate team of Parent Educators, Safety Technicians, and Coordinators who bring expertise, empathy, and heart to their work. Each team member is trained and certified in the programs they lead, ensuring families receive the highest level of care and support.
Together, we serve thousands of families each year through education, connection, and community collaboration, creating a place where every parent feels supported and every child can thrive.
Building Brighter Futures Together
Every parent deserves support, and every child deserves a strong start.
Whether you’re seeking resources or ready to give back, you’re an important part of the Welcome Baby community.
- Learn more about Parenting Classes
- Learn more about Child Safety Classes
- Learn more about The Giving Closet
- Learn how you can Get Involved
- Contact us with any questions or comments