A group of local caring young single parents are helping other young parents in need by donating much-loved baby and toddler items to Cwtch Baby Bank in Cardiff – the first of its kind in Wales!
The young people are part of Growing Together; a Big Lottery funded project for single parents under the age of 25, operating across the areas of Newport, Torfaen, Caerphilly and Monmouthshire, run in partnership by Charter and single parent charity Gingerbread.
Lyn Caldicot, Growing Together Co-ordinator said: “We were overwhelmed by the generosity of the parents, who know from personal experience the vast costs involved with raising a child. They found it particularly rewarding to be able to recycle their baby and toddler items, which included clothing, bedding and toys to help other vulnerable families”
She added: “Over 180 young single parents have benefitted from the Growing Together project to date; which brings together people who might be feeling isolated and lack the support and skills to be the parent they aspire to be”.
Cwtch Baby Bank provide essential equipment, clothing, toys and toiletries for newborn to 24 months old babies through referrals from social care, health professionals and other relevant support agencies. All the donations received go directly to the people who need it. Since launching in 2016, they have helped over 550 families.
Hilary Johnston, founder member of Cwtch Baby Bank said: “Cwtch would like to thank everyone who donated to us helping us to help families in the community. We have now helped well over 550 families and thanks to the generosity of so many mums we hope to help many more.”
The donations were collected at Growing Together’s annual summer party held at Little Village Hall in Pontypool where the children bounced on inflatable castles, ate candy floss and popcorn and enjoyed guest appearances by Batman, the Minions and Minnie Mouse.
Katie, a young single parent, and one of the young people supported by Growing Together said the cause was close to her heart. She said “I donated as I have been in the situation myself where I needed things for the kids but was financially unable to get them. People around me supported me and I was so thankful. It’s nice to be able to give something back, as a little help goes a long way, not just physically but emotionally too.’
To find out more about the Cwtch Baby Bank and how you can donate, go to https://cwtchbabybankwales.wixsite.com/cwtchbabybank
If you are a single parent under 25 and want to find out more about the Growing Together project have a look on www.growingtogetherproject.co.uk
Article added 30th September 2017
