Newsletter - Issue 17 - May 2023
Our News
This month is Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month, giving us all an opportunity to raise awareness about domestic violence and coercive control, and say NO to domestic and family violence together. We are thankful for our community's ongoing support as we continue to make a difference in the lives of the women and their children in the Wingecarribee Shire who are impacted by domestic violence.
I recently learned about an extraordinary woman named Charlotte Atkinson, who lived at Oldbury Farm near Sutton Forest in the 19th century. She was not only Australia's first children's book author but also a pioneer in women's education and fought for a woman's legal right to keep custody of her children when escaping violence. To honour her remarkable legacy, the Wingecarribee Women Writers has launched THE CHARLOTTE PROJECT,
a fundraising appeal to erect a bronze statue of Charlotte in Berrima Park. You can learn more about this local hero and donate to the statue fundraising appeal here.
With Mother's Day approaching, have you considered making a gift donation on behalf of your mum or another motherly figure? Your thoughtful gesture will support women and children in our community who lack a safe and happy home.
Vicki Kelley, Chair Pop In
Mother’s Day
This Mother's Day, show your support for mums affected by domestic violence by donating to Pop In. Pop In is committed to helping all mums become the best parents they can be, despite the challenges they may face. By providing resources and support - such as our Black Box parenting program - Pop In is helping to break the cycle of violence and create a brighter future for families. Your donation can make a real difference in the lives of mums and their children impacted by domestic violence.
Follow the link below to make a donation on behalf of your mum (or mum-figure) and print off a special Pop In thank-you certificate to give them.
Our results
Sue (32), along with her community support worker, has been attending Play and Chat since its inception, initially reluctant to engage with her child and staff, she has gradually eased into the program, is engaging more readily with the team, sharing her story and working towards receiving greater support from case worker, as her needs are being gently and comfortably being identified at a pace that suits her.
Sue has also become a great advocate for Play and Chat, her social support no longer attends and she feels comfortable to attend with her child on her own, she has also been busy spreading the word and encouraging other mums to attend.
Play and Chat
You are Invited to Play and Chat’s Mother’s Day Celebration and Open Day!
This will be a wonderful community event for women, celebrating our mums and carers and a great opportunity to visit Pop In and see what our Play and Chat program is all about.
When: Friday 12th May, 10am – 12pm
Where: Pop In – 2 Mona Rd, Bowral (next to the Hospital Café)
Bring: Yourselves, your colleagues, and any clients, you think may benefit from a small, specialised playgroup providing support for mothers/female caregivers and their pre-school children.
A fabulous morning tea, baked and organised by our amazing volunteers will be provided!
RSVP to Lauren via email lauren@popin.org.au or by phone: 02 4872 1229.
Our People
Toni Regan (left)
Toni is a former English and History Teacher and business owner who has recently moved back to the Southern Highlands. Now semi-retired, she looked to volunteering to reconnect with the community and use her skills. Toni says she loves volunteering with The Play and Chat program because she can see the huge difference it makes to the lives of the mums and children who attend. Toni was Play and Chat’s very first volunteer and has been a huge asset to the program, volunteering several times a month for the last 18 months.
Cindy Hart (right)
Cindy moved to the Southern Highlands twenty years ago, working as a nurse and midwife for many years. Now semi-retired, she decided to become a Play and Chat volunteer 18 months ago because she loves children and has a desire to help women in need. Cindy says that she loves volunteering at Pop In and that it’s wonderful to work with the Play and Chat program knowing it makes such a positive difference. Cindy has been volunteering several times every month since the program’s early days and is a highly valued member of our team.
If you are interested in volunteering with Pop In, please contact us at
https://www.popin.org.au/volunteer
Sponsor Thank you
Last month, we had the pleasure of presenting to Ord Minette's head office staff about the work Pop In does in our community and the importance of domestic violence awareness.
We would like to thank Ord Minette for the opportunity to present and we look forward to our ongoing partnership.
If you would like to raise awareness of domestic violence in your workplace and partner with Pop In, get in touch and we can look at the different ways you can support.
