With a program running out of Forster, Home Start volunteers help families through the stresses of everyday life with small children.

After undertaking a 10 week, one day per week preparation course, volunteers are sent out to help registered families.

“It is a really rewarding program for the volunteers to be a part of and there is a great support network for them because they all help each other,” project officer Michelle McDonell said.

The volunteers are supported by their coordinator, regular phone contact, meetings and other volunteers.

The free service offers families with one or more children under five, practical support and friendship.

The family may be experiencing parenting difficulties such as exhaustion or stress, they may be a single parent, isolated or had a recent multiple birth.

“It is very powerful for volunteers to be with a family when they are in crisis,” Ms McDonell said.

Volunteers are linked to a family on a one-on-one basis and generally visit families weekly for around two hours.

The role of the volunteer is determined during a discussion with the family and area coordinator, but could involve them playing with the children while allowing the parent to prepare and evening meal or shopping. Home Start is looking for volunteers and will be conduction a course in August and September.

For inquiries about the program or course contact the Forster Tuncurry coordinator on 6557 5993.