To provide a warm, safe space for mothers and toddlers to meet and get some nutritious food. To combat isolation and promote well-being.
by Michelle Frankel in Salford, Greater Manchester, United Kingdom
The big dream would be to take the mothers and toddlers on monthly outings to the countryside and beach. We would like to be able to provide transport and lunch. This would add an additional layer of pampering to our amazing group.
JEMS - Jewish Maternity Services - Special Delivery Family Support Group
Jems supports families through their ante/postnatal journey. This includes infertility, still-life trauma support, pregnancy planning, antenatal care and attending appointments where necessary, labor support, and early days/after-birth care.
Our aim where possible is to create a risk-free environment so families can have a positive birthing experience.
A few years ago a group of mothers from the North Manchester Jewish Community started getting together with their babies/toddlers one morning a week in different houses. They had been feeling isolated and alone and this weekly social was having a positive impact on the rest of the week. The group quickly grew and they moved into a community building. They now have speakers and workshops and they provide a nutritious brunch.
Our vision is for the 'coffee, cake, and pampering' morning to be open for longer hours and additional mornings. We would like to offer hot soup and a warm, safe place for mothers to relax whilst they watch their young children play. Many people from our community have large families (6 children or more) and are on a low income. This has resulted in them being hard hit by the cost of living crisis. Especially regarding heating and food. We aim to continue to offer this as a free service.
We would like to buy:
A small portable hob and saucepan to cook soup.
A smoothy maker.
Weekly refreshments.
To provide workshops/alternative therapies.
To pay a support worker to co-ordinator the group and be available for mothers in need of additional help.