Geelong Mums to the rescue this Christmas

GEELONG MUMS is on the lookout for Victorians to support babies and children in need by contributing to its annual Christmas Appeal.

The Geelong-based organisation is continuing its callout for pre-loved items from the community, rehoming essential nursery equipment, clothing, books, and toys to give babies and children in need the best start in life.

“Whilst many of us will be enjoying the celebrations at this time of year, the next few weeks will look bleak for the numerous Victorian families currently struggling just to afford basic essentials,” Geelong Mums chief executive officer Ruth Holdaway said.

“Making a financial donation to Geelong Mums will enable us to bring relief to these families in need.

“I’m so grateful to everyone who will donate to our Christmas Appeal, bringing the gift of dignity, love and hope to babies and children in the Geelong region.”

Geelong Mums Head of operations Julia Roache said the organisation works with a large network of Maternal and Child Health Nurses and social workers in the Geelong region to identify the needs of new mums and families who face a variety of challenges and hardships. This allows Geelong Mums to assist in ways the regions need.

“We are hoping to raise $75,000 this year so we can continue to take care of the thousands and thousands of babies we take care of every year,” Ms Roache said.

“Heading into Christmas, we’re particularly interested in donating items to help new mums that are going into childbirth alone.

“We know that it’s a really scary time for mothers going into motherhood, even around Christmas time. So, if we can alleviate any of that stress by providing them with a cot, a car seat or a pram, it means a lot more to them than just the items itself.”

More than 800 volunteers put together bundles of items at Geelong Mums’ warehouse located at 110 Balliang Street, South Geelong, which are then delivered to families by social workers on behalf of Geelong Mums.

A donation of $30 will keep a baby snug and safe with cosy bedding, meanwhile $56 will provide a clothing bundle for a baby or child with enough clothes to last all year round, and $187 will provide a cot and mattress – a safe place to sleep. Alternatively, $1,000 could provide a family with all the essentials they need for a young child.

During the last Financial Year Geelong Mums supported 6,366 babies and children with 20,532 items valued at more than $2 million.

Head to geelongmums.org to donate.