When Tilly* found out she was pregnant, she didn’t expect the problems that she would soon have to face.
Tilly was working full time when she learnt that she was expecting a baby boy and felt at ease knowing that she was entitled to paid maternity leave from her employer. But soon after, she realised she had misunderstood her entitlements and was not actually entitled to paid maternity leave.
Trying to do as much as she could on her own, Tilly worked until she was 38 weeks pregnant. She then had to wait for over seven and a half weeks for any government maternity assistance, so she began to adapt and learn how to live without an income to provide for her new born baby.
Fortunately, Tilly’s parents were able to help cover her rent so she and her baby had somewhere to live. But as is so often the case with new born babies, there were more expenses than Tilly could afford.
“It wasn’t pretty” admits Tilly, reflecting on that time of her life.
After confiding her struggles to a friend , Hobart City Mission was recommended to Tilly.
“I didn’t realise there was help accessible to me,” says Tilly. “It was daunting to ask for help, but I thought the worst thing that could happen is they say no.”
Within a day, she had an appointment booked, where a “nice man” helped her get set up and back on track.
Tilly was able to receive assistance through food vouchers, food packs and baby essentials such as nappies and formula.
During the appointment, Tilly was also invited to apply for Christmas Assistance.
Through all the generous donations from people like you, Tilly was able to enjoy her first Christmas as a mother.
“It was fantastic to get that help. Without it I wouldn’t be where I am now,” confesses Tilly.
Tilly is slowly but surely on her way up, thanks to the services provided through your support, in her hour of need.
*Name changed and stock image used for privacy
It is not too late to make a difference to other mothers like Tilly, who struggle with the costs of day to day let alone the extra pressures of Christmas. Donate to our Christmas Appeal by calling 6215 4200, or visiting www.hobartcitymission.org.au/brightenchristmas