Media Centre

Families connect with a big splash

Publish Date: 20/02/2009
Author: Marketing & Communications Dept.

Young mothers and their children who are participating in Baptcare’s Home-Start program in Bendigo enjoyed a day out at the local swimming pool on February 18th to nurture friendships and build new relationships.

“Parenting can be hard, especially when you have young children, but it is amazing how much a little support from a stranger can lighten the load,” Home-Start Coordinator, Ms Jane Worthington said.

For Home-Start participant Casey Rowe, a single mother on a disability pension, the extra support has provided day-to-day practical assistance and emotional relief.. “Home-Start offers great support and friendship. I’ve met a wonderful group of caring people who are ready to listen and assist me anytime - nothing seems to be too much trouble for them,” Ms Rowe said.

Parents with preschool children who may be faced with issues such as postnatal depression, ill health or social isolation have found the program most beneficial.

“Home-Start aims to provide emotional and practical support for families who are socially isolated and are struggling to cope with raising a young family,” said Baptcare’s Chief Executive, Mr Jeff Davey. “We are excited about seeing more positive outcomes from this program which has already made an important difference to the lives of many young families in Bendigo,” Mr Davey said.

Baptcare is urgently searching for Home-Start volunteers to visit socially isolated families with young children in Bendigo. Currently 16 clients in Bendigo are linked with home visiting volunteers with a further 13 families are waiting for assistance.

If you have a caring attitude and are interested in becoming a Home-Start volunteer, please contact Jane on 5441 1047 or 0439 038 140.