Vandalized agency gets help, could use more

The Press & Sun-Bulletin reported recently on the smashing of windows and a glass door at the Mothers & Babies Perinatal Network office. The article relates:

You have to wonder what would prompt someone to smash the windows and glass door at, well, anywhere. But why the Mothers & Babies Perinatal Network in Binghamton?

The thought nagged at me as I read about a recent rash of vandalism at the agency, which provides free or low-cost services to pregnant women and new families. It's been nagging at the agency's workers, too, who told the newspaper they feel confused and frustrated by the vandalism.

According to the agency's Web site, www.mothersand babies.org, its mission is to improve pregnancy and birth outcomes and support the health and development of individuals and families. It's one of 16 New York State Perinatal Networks originally developed with funding from the state Department of Health.

Among other things, the agency does regional planning for maternal and child health programs, plus education and referral services for individuals and families in Broome, Chenango, Cortland, Delaware, Otsego, Tioga and Tompkins counties.

Not exactly controversial stuff.

So why did vandals shatter a window and, in the process, send shards of glass spilling over donated baby clothes, which had to be sent out for cleaning?

"It just kind of shakes you," Sharon Chesna, executive director of the nonprofit agency, told the newspaper. "Who knows who would do it?" Read more here. If you are interested in helping, visit www.mothersandbabies.org to make a donation online. Donations also can be made by check and sent to Mothers and Babies Perinatal Network 457 State St., Binghamton, N.Y. 13901.