Kylie Van Den Brink is the Rushworth mum behind the Rushworth Mums Helping Mums group, which has recently been recognised in the Australia Day Awards for the Rushworth and District area. Her efforts began about a year and a half ago, when she first set up the Facebook group which now has over 100 members.
The group began as a way for parents to reach out to their community for toys and other parenting necessities without judgement and the expectation of payment. Kylie said uptake was fast for the group, and earlier this year, the efforts were rewarded on Australia Day with a plaque, and three $50 vouchers to the Kyabram Fauna Park, which they were able to donate to families in the community.
With Tamara Rogerson, the group has also developed a playgroup, when the need arose with a council play group was closed for a number of months. Little Friends Rushworth has also seen a significant response from the community, with Kylie highlighting the importance for mums to be able to connect in an environment that is both supportive for them, and safe and comfortable for their children. “Some weeks it might be the only outing you get”.
Whilst Kylie will be taking her leave from the group, the Facebook group and playgroup continue, with Rushworth P-12 school offering a space for the group to hold its weekly sessions in, and a growing collection of donated toys. Reflecting on her time organising the Mums Helping Mums group, Kylie said “So many amazing friendships have been made.”
