The ladies have travelled to Tuncurry once a week to complete the course that allows them to become Home-Start volunteers.

“At first I thought it was too far to travel but then I made the commitment and with Sandra we shared the driving,” Katarina said.

Home-Start is available to families with children under five, who need some extra help.

A volunteer visits the family each week to play with the children or help a parent cook a meal.

“I really enjoy the opportunity to broaden my horizons and keep in touch with children at a young age,” Sandra said.

Sandra was unable to have children but said by working with them she is not missing out on the experience.

“I am not working and it is time to give back to the community where I live,” Sandra said.

Families are able to directly refer themselves to Home-Start.

They will be assessed by the coordinator before being paired with a volunteer.

“There is a need for Home-Start in this area because of the rural isolation and the itinerant workers who live in the area,” Sandra said.

Volunteers visit the family in their own homes, allowing them to feel comfortable.

“We are there to give families support, not through babysitting or cleaning, but by being with the family and, by example, helping them cope with whatever problems they have,” Katarina said.

“Help is here if you want it, you don’t need to just cope.”

If you are interested in finding out more about the Home-Start program, contact regional coordinator, Lisa Butcher on 6557 5933 or 0408 421 866. The recent graduates are waiting to be placed with a family.