The funding promised by the Commonwealth Government has become a reality at Mums’ Cottage. Last year, Sr Helen Anne and her wonderful group of volunteers received a visit from local parliamentarians prior to the Federal elections. The visitors were Tanya Plibersek, the then Shadow Minister for Education, Mr Dan Repacholi who was contesting the seat of Hunter, Sharon Claydon, the member for Newcastle and Lake Macquarie City Mayor Kay Fraser.
During the visit, they pledged, if elected, $250,000 towards the repairs needed at Mums’ Cottage. With the success of the Labor party, the promised amount has become a reality. Currently all are engaged in the process of developing the plans for the funding.
The main priority is the refurbishing the church building at the front of the property which is leased from the Uniting Church. The building is in dire need of new piers, painting and waterproofing. All at Mums’ Cottage are dedicated to creating a warm and safe environment for Mothers and Carers – to become a vibrant community hub.
Mums’ Cottage offers a variety of services that include
counselling with trained professionals who donate their time;
pregnancy,- parenting, family and self-development courses throughout the year;
a co-op clothing and goods shed on site;
a toddler reading and playgroup;
a library of resources available, free to anyone who needs them.
In addition, a number of weekly and fortnightly games, creative and social groups open to the community.
The extra space that the funding provides will enable Mums’ Cottage to continue in what it does best as stated on its website:
We welcome, respect and affirm each person who enters our door. Our aim is to enrich the lives of the future generation while supporting the present generation through times of difficulty and despair. We take a holistic approach in providing benevolent relief to individuals and their family, within a nurturing and encouraging environment.