Year 12 Social Justice Students Support The Village Co.

Year 12 Social Justice Students Support The Village Co.

As part of their Connections Task, the Year 12 Social Justice class explored the challenges faced by vulnerable mothers during pregnancy and the early stages of motherhood. Through their learning, students discovered that many women experience motherhood without the support of family, stable housing, or the financial means to provide basic necessities for themselves and their newborn babies. In some cases, women arrive at hospital to give birth with little more than the clothes they are wearing and leave with very few resources to begin caring for their child.

Students were particularly inspired by the work of The Village Co., a South Australian charity co-founded by former midwife Steph Malan. After witnessing firsthand the number of mothers arriving at hospital without essential items for themselves or their babies, Steph recognised a growing need in the community and established The Village Co. to ensure that no mother feels alone or unsupported as she begins her parenting journey. The organisation now provides practical support, care packs, meals, mental health resources, and community connections for women facing hardship, including those experiencing homelessness, domestic violence, poverty, or social isolation.

Motivated by what they had learned, the Year 12 Social Justice class organised a bake sale on 3 August, raising an impressive $500 for The Village Co. The event was enthusiastically supported by students, staff, and families, demonstrating the generosity and compassion of our school community.

The $500 raised will make a tangible difference. Donations help The Village Co. purchase essential items such as newborn nappies, wipes, clothing, baby wraps, maternity pads, toiletries, and other necessities that are included in their Welcome Babe Bags for vulnerable mothers. Financial contributions also support programs that provide meals, breastfeeding assistance, and mental health support to women who may otherwise face these challenges alone.

Beyond the funds raised, this project gave students a valuable opportunity to put their learning into action. Through advocacy, organisation, and community engagement, they demonstrated that even a small act of kindness can have a significant impact on the lives of others.

The Year 12 Social Justice class should be commended for their initiative, empathy, and commitment to supporting vulnerable mothers and babies in South Australia. Their efforts have helped ensure that more women can begin motherhood with dignity, care, and hope.

Rosa Frezza
Year 12 Integrated Learning Teacher

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