Geelong Mums set lofty goals for 2024

GEELONG Mums has set an ambitious goal of assisting ten per cent more babies, young children and families in 2024.

This year’s target is off the back of the organisation’s services rising 27 per cent in the last calendar year due to the current cost-of-living crisis.

Geelong Mums supplied essential clothing, sleeping gear, food and hygiene products to more than 6,900 babies and young children between 0 and 6 years old in 2023.

Geelong Mums chief executive officer Ruth Holdaway said setting huge goals for 2024 and striving for the highest would be key to making a difference to those in need.

“The need for our services and the number of times someone is asking for goods from us has increased dramatically,” she said.

“We need more money and more goods to be able to support more babies and young children as we have in the past.

“Our recent Festive Appeal was a huge success and raised over $257,000 to give us a huge boost into 2024, however obviously the demand is only rising, so we just need more and more.

“We obviously have high ambitions, but are confident that if the community’s generosity continues, we can do it!”

Ms Holdaway said there are many ways locals doing “well” can assist Geelong Mums.

“We certainly need the goods donations. We had a bumper January with people clearing out their houses, but we do need this to continue,” she said.

“People power is another thing. If anyone is interesting in volunteering, they can come along as an individual or come along with their business. We are super flexible and welcoming!

“Financial donations though are probably one of the bigger ones. We are constantly needing funds and are reliant completely on individuals, businesses and trusts for our funding.

“We have no government funding, so the need for financial donations is always here.”

Ms Holdaway said the organisation is also on the lookout for businesses to jump on board and sponsor its Mother’s Day.

Geelong Mums is open 9am-3pm Monday to Friday and on Saturday mornings.

For more, and to donate, head to www.geelongmums.org/