Queensburgh mum creates charity to help babies
Julie Shadwell says there is so much need for help, especially for young mums with no support system.
WHEN Julie Shadwell joined a mother’s group for expectant mothers a spark was ignited.
In the company of other mums and mums-to-be, the Queensburgh resident learned much of how difficult life can be for those less fortunate than herself.
“I quickly realised that countrywide there was an absolute outcry from underprivileged or underage single mothers who have been abandoned by family and the father of the baby,” she explained.
“I put out calls to people I knew, the local community, a church and used social media,” she said.
Overwhelmed by the response in the form of second-hand clothes and blankets and even donations of cash, she began putting together care packs for the mothers in need.
Some people offered cash donations and with that she bought nappies and other essential items.
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Grace 4 babies registered
“Our first care packs went out and soon we were getting requests coming in fast and furious,” said Julie, whose own child was born in 2019 shortly before she founded Grace 4 Babies NPC in April.
“We registered the charity, Grace 4 Babies, in 2019 as an NPC to help underprivileged mothers with baby essential care packs.”
Shadwell said there has been so much need for help for the women and their babies, especially in the current economic climate.
“Of late our resources have been quickly swamped,” she said.
Describing herself as coming ‘cap in hand’ she said what Grace 4 Babies needs most is support from manufacturers and suppliers of baby products.
Rewarding
“Even if companies can assist only with sample sizes of products and some disposable nappies to put in the starter care packs, that would be great,” she said adding that for companies that help with donations of products she will ensure their generosity does not go unrewarded.
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“By assisting in this small way, it would help expose your brand to new mommies and to the public as I post pictures of all the care packs,” she said, explaining that each care package is put together according to the needs of the individual mother and child who will benefit from it.
“We are happy to promote your product and name on our web page and on our social media accounts, both Facebook and Instagram,” she said.
“We are doing this for a good purpose and keen heart to give back and pay it forward to any young mother who desperately needs some support. Should you wish to sponsor some products, collection or a courier can be arranged,” she said.
Shadwell said those who are wanting to donate cash will receive a SARS Section 18A tax certificate at the end of their financial year.
Contact Grace 4 Babies NPC on 071 549 2776, or visit the website at https://grace4babies.wixsite.com/grace4babies.
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