‘Bright by Text’ a Useful Resource for SouthCoast Parents

United Way of Greater New Bedford announced on Thursday, April 29 that the organization teamed up with Bright by Text, a text messaging service that supports parents and other caregivers of young children. Now United Way wants everyone to know that this resource is a great way to find out about free and low-cost holiday activities for kids as well.

Subscribers to the service receive text messages that link to research-based content on childcare and timely information on local events and resources for kids and families. A new mother might click on an article about how to soothe an infant; a toddler’s babysitter could watch a short video on making sock puppets; a grandparent could discover a weekly reading hour at a library nearby.

"United Way of Greater New Bedford is thrilled to partner with Bright by Text, especially as more families are needing help and community organizations are looking for ways to share information on important programs and events," Michelle N. Hantman, President and CEO of United Way of Greater New Bedford said. "We will use Bright by Text to directly reach families in Greater New Bedford with localized, critical information related to housing and food insecurity, as well as resources like parenting classes, outdoor activities and preschool open enrollment periods.”

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Community organizations across Greater New Bedford can contribute the latest information about their own programs, events, and resources in the area.

This free service, available in English and Spanish, includes two to four text messages* per week, often with links to learning activities from PBS KIDS, Sesame Workshop, Vroom as well as tips and community resources specifically targeted to a child’s age and local zipcode.

United Way and Women United members are connecting with local childcare centers, pediatrician offices, schools, and community organizations to sign up parents and caregivers. Similar to other UW offerings like 211 and Volunteer SouthCoast, community organizations are able to share information on important programs and events free to the community.

Parents and other caregivers can sign up today by texting the word “GREAT” to 274448 or online at unitedwayofgnb.org/brightbytext. *Please note that standard messaging and data rates will apply.

New Bedford Mitsubishi encourages everyone to Live United.