Every Friday morning, Upwey Baptist Church comes alive with the chatter of children, the laughter of mums and (crucially) the hiss of a barista coffee machine. This is Mum’s Connection Space, a program run by Foothills Community Care, which does exactly what it says on the tin.
“I was new to the area and feeling a bit lonely and overwhelmed by the move, when another mum invited me to Mum’s Connection Space. I’ve found genuine friendships here, and I can just be myself, in whatever mood I’m in that morning,” said an Upwey Mum.
“It’s a space that makes you feel supported and cared for. And when you’re a busy mum, caring for everyone else all the time, that feels really special,” she said.
Each Friday, women gather, alternating between crafts and cooking. On cooking days, there’s a collaborative effort, with a wholesome sit-down lunch, all made using rescued food. Kids munch on fruit platters, Vegemite sandwiches and nuggets. There are fresh groceries and hearty soups to take home. On the craft weeks, there’s chatter, creativity, mindfulness and morning tea.
