Barnardos – A moment for the Mammies
Una is just one Mammy we’re working with at the moment. Una has had a lot going on over the last few years, and she has really benefitted from food vouchers provided by Barnardos to get fresh ingredients so she cooks healthy, nutritious meals for her four children. Her budget is tight but she does her utmost to ensure the children are eating well. Which sometimes means she goes without herself. This is something we’re hearing more and more from the families attending our centres. Parents going without, to make sure their children don’t suffer.
Life hasn’t been kind to Una and her little ones. They’ve had to deal with so many challenges – health and mental health issues, family relationship challenges, as well as financial difficulties. But Una has pushed through. She is very present for the children, and does her very best to make sure they have everything they need every day.
Her Barnardos project worker, who I was chatting to recently, said Una really deserves the award for “Mother of the Year”! As well as supporting Una with food packs and vouchers, they’ve discussed self-care, how Una can manage her finances and access the various supports available to her. They even chat about recipes and meal planning to get the best from her budget. We try to offer support in any way we can, to give people the best opportunities to move forward.
And the good news is, Una is planning on returning to education, so she can get a job that will give her more independence and enable her to support her family. She’s worked so hard to get to this point, and to believe in herself that she can take on this new adventure.
Each day we hear the stories of mothers like Una. Their bravery, kindness and dedication to their little ones is an inspiration, and thanks to kind supporters like you Jacqueline, they can receive the support that they need, whatever their circumstances.
We know so well that parents and carers and entire families come in all different guises for children, but with Mother’s Day just around the corner, today we are celebrating all the Mammies – whoever may take that role in a child’s life.
We want to share our profound admiration for all the Mams out there who are being so brave in the face of life challenges, and who are doing their very best for their children.
So thank you, and to all the mothers and carers in Ireland and everywhere, we wish you a very happy Mother’s Day!
Very best wishes,
Gaelle Robert
Donor Care Team
Barnardos
