Tara Murray
Craigieburn Central is donating more than 2000 baby essential packs to families in need.
The shopping centre is working with Northern Hospital and St Kilda Mums, who will distribute the packages into the community.
The packs were initially purchased to provide customers using the centre’s parenting facilities with complimentary emergency baby goods such as nappies, bib, wipes and disposable nappy bags.
But due to COVID-19, the centre has decided to donate the packs to families in need.
Craigieburn Central centre manager Janet Reading said the centre played an important role in the community.
“Over the past year, we’ve supported a number of other charities such as Youth Projects, Berry Street and The Salvation Army,” she said.
“We’re pleased to be able to donate these baby essential packs and support local vulnerable families.”
Northern Health maternity nurse unit manager Michelle Morrow said the packs would be distributed to new mums.
St Kilda Mums chief executive Jessica Macpherson said the packs would come in handy for families who were struggling.
“Families on low incomes can’t afford to change their children as often as they need to,” she said.
“They are likely to cut back on other essentials like food to buy nappies and wipes.
“One mum we helped recently had to choose between nappies or the renewal of her nursing license. Providing essentials such as nappies reduces stress and prevents avoidable health problems.”
