THE first Thriving as a Single Mother program in Sutherland Shire from early March has been booked out, with the 12 places taken.
The 10-month program was developed to support the shire's 6391 single mothers who may be struggling, and to empower them to develop resilience and self-confidence.
Latest statistics indicate single mothers experience significant financial and social disadvantage, including an increased rate of family violence which makes them vulnerable to homelessness and having mental health problems.
Issues relating to single motherhood include financial hardship, workplace discrimination and role overload.
The focus is on skills development, education, peer support, social interaction and linking participants to relevant local services.
In between monthly workshops, participants will receive phone, email and face-to-face support.
They will have the option of joining The Single Parents Support Group which meets at The Hub, at Caringbah.
The program is a collaborative project between Gymea Community Aid and Interrelate, and is for single mothers, their children and their extended family.
Details: Community development manager Rosanna, Gymea Community Aid; 524 9559
or censervice@gcais.ngo.org.au or shiresingleparents.org.au
