Founded by a group of South Australian mothers, not-for-profit organisation The Village Co. delivers gift bags to bubs and vulnerable new mums.

The bubs’ bags are lovingly filled with donated newborn necessities like nappies, wipes, soap, mittens and blankets. Mums also receive self-love bags packed with personal hygiene products, cosy robes and much more to remind them they’re not forgotten after their baby arrives.

Here at RAA, we’re all about backing South Australians making a difference in the community. That’s why we set up RAA’s Grassroots Giving program, which supports not-for-profit groups like The Village Co.

Through Grassroots Giving, The Village Co. received a $4280 grant which they used to purchase 1000 gift bags. As a result, 1000 SA mums experiencing homelessness, domestic violence, mental health conditions or other disadvantages will receive a bag filled with essentials to assist them bath, dress and keep their babies happy and healthy.

Press play to find out more about The Village Co. and see their inspiring work in motion.

The Village Co. CEO and mum-of-two, Steph Malan, co-founded the charity with a friend. She understands the challenges of being a new mum and learnt quickly that a strong support network is vital.

“It truly does take a village to raise a child, which was where the inspiration for the name came from,” Steph says.

As a midwife, she’s also witnessed first-hand the struggles some women face embracing motherhood due to their circumstances.

“It’s amazing how small everyday items or gestures can make a big difference,” she says.

“A hot shower for mums and a clean outfit and nappy for bubs means the world to these women, and I’m comforted knowing we’re able to help in some small way.”

Perhaps more important than the gifts inside the bags is the simple message attached: ‘You are stronger than you know.’

Six small, albeit powerful, words which The Village Co. reminds new mums who are doing it tough.