Web Site A One Stop Resource For Families

The Shreveport Times - Southest Voices
Bobbie Clark
08/24/2007

Sbfamilies.com was created to give families a one-stop resource of events and activities in and around the Shreveport-Bossier City area.

The site was started by Allison Cate, a married mother of two daughters, after the birth of her second child. She was frustrated not knowing what was available and where to go for childcare, support groups, baby equipment, etc.

According to the Web site, she spent five to 10 hours a week searching for information. Cate keeps the site fresh by reading every publication in the area.

"I want to load up the site to make life easier for other parents," she said.

The chat section on the site also gives her lots of information. Right now her staff consists of her and her family, but expansion is on the way.

Cate said she is about to hire a staff to help maintain the Web site. She also publishes an e-newsletter every other week. People can sign up for it at www.sbfamilies.com.

The site has also proven itself useful as a way to connect the community. Cate has organized a school uniform swap and is considering hosting another one in the spring.

Cate said she also wants to hold a children's book swap. She said children outgrow books just like they outgrow clothes.

"I'm very community-oriented," she said. "The point of these events is to help parents and help build a strong sense of communit