Momma Moments Christmas Party

Posted by Don Sword on Dec 08, 2017
 
The challenges of pregnancy and parenting can be overwhelming for any woman, and for young mothers experiencing social isolation, financial demands, and with limited social and family support, the challenges of motherhood are even more so.
 
The Momma Moments Program was created in response to the significant number of pregnant and parenting young women who came to St. John's based charity, Choices For Youth, for support. The program tried to fill an extensive gap in programming which was leaving the young mothers unable to find healthy ways to interact with other moms, share experiences, learn healthy habits, and enjoy much-needed breaks from the rigors of raising children in a safe environment.
 

The Program currently runs in St. John’s and Conception Bay South, where groups meet once a week for programming that emphasizes overall wellness – mental, physical, spiritual, and social – for mother and child. Young mothers have access to healthy recreational activities, as well as resources and discussion on topics of family building, income supports, mental health, nutrition, and more. In addition, staff act as advocates for their well-being and that of their children, and consistently provide new connections that build independence. During program hours, volunteers of provide child minding services, and staff and volunteers of Momma Moments prepare meals for moms and kids – with an extra to take home.

Several years ago the program was introduced to Conception Bay South, NL with the assistance of the Rotary Club of Avalon Northeast.

 

That club continues to help out when it can and now holds an annual Momma Moments Christmas party for the mothers and children in the Conception Bay South group. There is music and laughter and Santa always shows up. Both children and mothers go home each year with presents and filled with the Christmas spirit. It is a highlight of the year for both the moms and children as well as the Avalon Northeast Rotarians!