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This International Women’s Day, local community organisation The Village Co is aiming to double the number of vulnerable new mothers it supports with essential baby items – and RAA has come on board to assist.
In South Australia, one in two new mothers face financial hardship, social isolation, or other significant challenges during pregnancy and early motherhood.
This highlights the urgent need for practical support, as thousands of women struggle to provide for their babies while navigating personal hardships such as domestic violence, homelessness, mental health concerns, or a lack of family support.
Since its inception in 2018, local organisation The Village Co has helped almost 6,000 new Mums doing it tough with a care pack of essential items like baby clothes, nappies, toiletries and frozen meals.
This International Women’s Day, the organisation is aiming to reach 2,800 vulnerable women in the next 12 months, calling on the community to consider donating $28 towards a care pack for new mothers.
It comes as RAA launches a new partnership with The Village Co with a $10,000 grant to help to deliver more care packs, and assist with logistics, stock management, and staffing to support the vital service.
RAA General Manager Community & Corporate Affairs Emily Perry said the RAA team and its members were passionate about supporting organisations like The Village Co who make a real difference in people’s lives.
“We’ve previously supported The Village Co. through RAA’s Grassroots Giving program, and we wanted to formalise our partnership in recognition of the vital work they’re doing for new Mums,” Ms Perry said.
“That’s why RAA has provided a further $10,000 worth of funding to assist The Village Co. in providing more care packs to new mothers who need them most ahead of International Women’s Day.
“On top of this, RAA will also help by providing volunteers and exploring opportunities to assist with distribution throughout the year.”
The Village Co Founder Stephanie Malan said RAA’s generosity is more than just a donation—it’s an investment in the wellbeing of new mothers and their babies.
“This support enables us to reach even more women in need, ensuring they have the essential items, care, and dignity they deserve as they welcome their babies into the world,” Ms Malan said.
“We are incredibly grateful to RAA for recognising the importance of standing beside new mothers.
“They understand that motherhood and the challenges it brings are not distant issues—they are deeply personal and experienced by women close to us, whether in our families, our communities, or even within RAA itself.
“Their commitment to supporting these mums reflects a shared belief in the power of community and the importance of lifting each other up.
“Becoming a mother is one of the biggest transitions in a woman’s life, yet too many do it without the essentials, without support, and often in crisis.”
To learn more about The Village Co’s International Women’s Day campaign visit their website.
For more on RAA’s Grassroots Giving program, which is open now for applications, visit the RAA website.