About Us

Our History

After reading an article in a sociological journal about a Mothers’ Center on Long Island, Carol Goodman advertised in the Suburban News, searching for women interested in starting a local mothers’ group.  Five women met in July of 1978.  At that time, no one but the moms themselves seemed to understand that motherhood comes with isolation and frustration as well as joy. Through peer-facilitated discussion groups, moms could share their experiences with other moms in a trusting, respectful environment.

In February of 1979, the Mothers’ Center of Central New Jersey welcomed members with a workshop at the Scotch Plains Library on the “Stress of Motherhood.”  After that, evening groups met in a members’ homes or at the Westfield Public School Administration Building. That same year we sponsored an all-day conference entitled “Mother Care: Viewing Motherhood as a Growth Experience,” a dramatic outreach to the community.

In June of 1980, in affiliation with the Westfield Y, we began offering daytime groups and childcare.  Our membership doubled.  Mothers’ Center of Central New Jersey (MCCNJ) became incorporated in 1984.  In 1985, MCCNJ received a $10,000 grant to begin an on-site babysitting program and we moved to the Crescent Ave. Presbyterian Church in Plainfield.  Also in 1985, our semi-annual kids’ stuff consignment sale started as the major fundraiser for rent, insurance, and babysitting. Our membership boomed to over 100 women.  As an all-volunteer cooperative, it was difficult to keep up with the growing need while still fulfilling the mission.

After a 6-year search for a new home, MCCNJ moved in 2004 to Cranford United Methodist Church and then in 2006 to Trinity Episcopal Church.  In 2008, MCCNJ moved to Garwood Presbyterian Church. In 2021 MCCNJ moved to Beth-El Mekor Chayim in Cranford where we continue to host our playgroups and events. 

After decades of growth and change, MCCNJ continues to serve the next generation of moms.