'Bright by Text' Program Launches on the SouthCoast

United Way of Greater New Bedford announced on Thursday, April 29 that the organization is teaming up with Bright by Text, a text messaging service that supports parents and other caregivers of young children.

According to the release, 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," said Michelle N. Hantman, President and CEO of United Way of Greater New Bedford. "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.”

Community organizations across Greater New Bedford can contribute the latest information about their own programs, events, and resources in the area. Rhode Island PBS has also signed up to be a content and promotional partner, and provide video content that will explain this service in greater detail.

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. 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.

This program is sponsored by First Citizens Federal Credit Union on 1420 WBSM and FUN 107.

KEEP READING: Here are the most popular baby names in every state

Using March 2019 data from the Social Security Administration, Stacker compiled a list of the most popular names in each of the 50 states and Washington D.C., according to their 2018 SSA rankings. The top five boy names and top five girl names are listed for each state, as well as the number of babies born in 2018 with that name. Historically common names like Michael only made the top five in three states, while the less common name Harper ranks in the top five for 22 states.

Curious what names are trending in your home state? Keep reading to see if your name made the top five -- or to find inspiration for naming your baby.