Mother’s Day gifts support local foster carers

A PAIR of Surf Coast mothers have joined forces with a local family service provider to express their gratitude for foster carers within Greater Geelong, the Bellarine and the Surf Coast.

Geelong-based service provider Meli has partnered with Torquay mums and local businesses Emma Dumesny of Myndly, and Lauren McQuade of Lauren McQuade Handmade, to put together a gift for the organisation’s foster carers, as a “thank you” for their work.

Each foster carer will receive a special Mother’s Day pack, which includes a Myndly gratitude journal, a Lauren McQuade Handmade mug and Love Tea teabags.

“As mothers ourselves, we know what it takes to care for a child – although it’s incredibly rewarding, it can also be exhausting and all-consuming,” Ms Dumesny said.

“It’s a privilege to be celebrating them this Mother’s Day, and everything they do for our community.

“Foster carers give so much of themselves to others, and it’s important for them to take care of themselves as well.”

Out of Home Care manager Jo Dumesny urged residents to consider taking up a volunteer foster carer position due to staff shortages across the region, including at Meli.

“There is an urgent need for all types of carers from overnight or emergency care, respite, through to longer term carers,” she said.

“Foster carers can come from all walks of life, they can be single, couples including same-sex couples, families, with or without children.

“What is important is that they can provide children with a safe and nurturing home.”

Meli volunteers, or “villagers”, are part of the extended “family unit” similar to the role of an aunt, uncle, grandparent, or guardian, taking on simple and practical activities with a child in care.

A villager can also help with out of school tasks such as school drop-offs and pick-ups, after school activities, homework, and mentoring.

To find out more about becoming a foster carer or a villager, phone BCYF on 5226 8900 or head to meli.org.au