MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- The MacDill Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) Chapter will have regular meetings the first Tuesday of every month beginning September 6, 2016 at Manhattan First Baptist Church in Tampa, Florida.
Established as a faith-based group for mothers and expectant mothers, MacDill MOPS began approximately six years ago. The ages of the children range from birth to kindergarten years.
Although it is a faith-based program, all mothers are welcome regardless of religious preference.
Overall, MacDill MOPS is a group that allows all mothers assigned to MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, the opportunity to become more equipped and to find their own identity by journeying alongside one another. The organization is led by military moms for military moms and moms-to-be, all who have a shared desire to be the best moms they can be.
“MOPS allows mothers to get together, child-free, and have fellowship with brunch, a guest speaker, and crafts. It also includes free child care,” said Breanna Shenk, coordinator of MacDill MOPS. “I have been a part of the program for three years, and have met many mothers going through the same daily struggles to include deployments and temporary duties.”
Currently, there are approximately 50 to 60 mothers on the roster, but it continuously changes because of the frequency the military members move.
The group also holds special outings and participates in community outreach. Regularly occurring events include moms’ night out and children playdates, which are referred to as “Moppets,”each month at a local park.
“I was very excited to meet other mothers, and have an outlet to socialize and get advice from mothers that share the same experiences,” explained Monica Pacheco, a MacDill MOPS member. “Being a single parent and first-time mother, I needed help and advice from moms that share my beliefs, and it has turned into my support system.”
The next meet and greet will be held August 18, 2016. If interested, please visit macdillmops.wix.com/macdillmops or the MacDill Mops Facebook page.
Publication of this article is in no way intended to suggest Air Force endorsement of any private organization.