The Nurtured Village Hampers: Be a Secret Santa for Mums in Need
As we know, Christmas creates cherished memories, but it can also be a challenging time for many.
Every family should have the opportunity to celebrate Christmas without added stress; however, this is increasingly difficult for many. The pressures of preparing meals, buying gifts, and managing travel costs can intensify financial strain, especially in the current cost of living crisis.
This year, The Nurtured Village Hampers are asking the community to be a Secret Santa by inviting them to generously contribute to the Secret Santa campaign to help build hampers – where the community’s donations will help the Village buy:
- $5 for a box of candy canes
- $10 for chocolates
- $20 for a Christmas Cake
- $50 for a leg of ham
Kaitlyn Bywater, Executive Director and Manager of Operations for The Nurtured Village, acknowledges that the Christmas season is a major stressor for mums and families, which is evident in the nominations they receive in the months leading up to the holidays.
“This year, we’ve received a total of almost 1200 nominations across the country, and of these nominations, the most consistent hurdle we see mums navigating is financial hardship and a lack of support,” Kaitlyn said.
“41% (a whopping 487 of nominated mums) reported struggling with financial burden, while 39% felt a lack of support in navigating family life.”
Kaitlyn feels saddened and concerned that they have seen a significant increase in mums and families experiencing food instability over the last few months. But she said the Secret Santa is here to lift some burden away from families this Christmas.
In an article by the Hills to Hawkesbury Community News earlier this year, The Nurtured Village noted about 107 hampers across Australia consisting of over 8,715 donations were distributed from January to April 2024.
“Thanks to generous community donations and financial contributions, we’ve been able to deliver over 250 hampers this year and have been able to gift Nearly 19,000 donations in these hampers – which is just beautiful to see,” Kaitlyn mentioned.
“But our success and impact rely on the generosity of the community. We know times are financially tough right now, but every single dollar counts in helping us continue to help mums. Plus, every donation over $2 is tax deductible, which is a lovely incentive to pay it forward when one can.”
“Our Hills District team has continued to receive steady nominations throughout the year, and with increased support and volunteer power available for 2025 we are hopeful to increase our local impact even further!”
The charity’s efforts depend on the generosity of donors and the dedication of volunteers. If you are able to contribute through the link https://www.thenurturedvillage.org/donate.
The Nurtured Village Hampers is on a mission to bring love and support to mothers across Australia. They are also looking for hamper volunteers in the Hills district. If you are able to lend some time, send your contact [email protected].
