Caring Mums reaches 1000 families

Caring Mums, a volunteer-led program supporting women through the often overwhelming early months of motherhood, is celebrating a significant milestone: supporting its 1000th mother since the program launched in 2011.

Operated by NCJWA Vic, Caring Mums connects trained volunteers with new mothers experiencing isolation, emotional overwhelm, or a lack of practical support during the transition to parenthood.Volunteers provide regular one-to-one support during the baby’s first year, offering connection, encouragement, and a listening ear at a time when many women feel most vulnerable.

The milestone comes during a new chapter for the program under the leadership of Program Manager Tanya Cawthorne, who stepped into the role in 2024 following the retirement of founding manager Michelle Kornberg.

“Reaching our 1000th mum is an extraordinary moment for the program,” said Caring Mums program manager, Tanya Cawthorne. NCJWA VicPresident Anna Serry said the milestone highlights the importance of community-led initiatives supporting women.“Caring Mums is a powerful example of women supporting women,” Serry said. “For fifteen years this program has provided compassion, connection and practical support to mothers who may otherwise feel alone. It reflects the best of ourcommunity – stepping up to care for one another.”

“Motherhood can be incredibly joyful, but it can also be deeply lonely,” Cawthorne said. “Having a trusted volunteer visit regularly can make a huge difference to a mother’s confidence, wellbeing and sense of connection.”

The Caring Mums program is looking to reach more Jewish mothers to ensure every woman who needs support knows it is available and feels comfortable asking for support. Recently NCJW Vic hosted more than 50 female leaders with representatives from community organisations, health and wellbeing sectors, education, philanthropy and communal leadership to explore how the Caring Mums program can reach more Jewish mothers who need support.

Cawthorne said, “Over 50 women from across the spectrum of our community came together with a shared commitment to ensuring that no mother feels alone in the early months of parenthood. It reflects the deep care our community has for supporting women and families.”  Participants discussed the barriers that may prevent Jewish mothers from accessing support and identified practical ways to increase awareness and engagement within the community.

As demand for the service grows, Caring Mums is currently seeking new volunteers to join its next training intake. An information session for prospective volunteers will be held on Thursday March 26 at 7.30pm, where attendees can learn more about the program. The next Caring Mums volunteer training program will run across three sessions on April 29, May 6, and May 13.

The program welcomes volunteers from a wide range of backgrounds who are compassionate, reliable, and committed to supporting mothers in their community.“Our volunteers often tell us that becoming a Caring Mum is one of the most meaningful things they have ever done,” Cawthorne said. “You don’t need professional qualifications – just warmth, empathy and a willingness to show up for another mother.”

With more families seeking support each year, the organisation hopes themilestone – and the strong response from community leaders – will inspire more women to step forward.

“Supporting mothers strengthens families and communities,” Cawthorne said. “Every volunteer who joins us means another mother can receive the support she deserves.”

To register interest in becoming a volunteer visit: www.ncjwavic.org.au/form/caring-mums-want-to- volunteer or email caringmums@ncjwavic.org.au