Olivia’s Place
Olivia’s Place is a local organisation that was born out of a passion for helping families in the Gippsland area. Operating in Warragul since 2012 and originally established under the governance of a national organization, Olivia’s Place was co-founded by two women Kirsten Finger and Melissa Raymond, who were both mothers who understood the joys and challenges of raising young children and who lived in the Gippsland area.
The organisation is grassroots in nature and is governed by a Board of Directors, all local men and women with varying professional backgrounds. We have a small team of part-time employees( mostly mums) and our large volunteer workforce that is engaged with the day-to-day activities of the organisation.
Since commencing, our Family Support Program has grown from supporting just 5 families in the first year to 90 families a year within 3 years and now between 150-200 families each year. Our Material Aid Program, established in mid-2015, has provided in excess of $300,000 of material aid to families. Material aid includes maternity and infant-related items that are necessary to help clothe mum and baby, provide a safer home environment and the means to travel, reducing social isolation.
Olivia's Place is focused on supporting families facing challenges around the time of welcoming a baby – through any stage of pregnancy and up to the child's 1st birthday. We know that the first 1000 days of a child’s life are crucial for their development and wellbeing. That’s why we offer a range of services and programs to support parents during pregnancy and early parenting. We provide social and emotional support to new and expectant parents, supporting them through the challenges they face in their parenting journey; and we provide material goods that alleviate financial strain related to welcoming a baby as well as give the gift of a safe home environment (a safe place to sleep) and participation in the community (prams and car restraints to support accessibility).
Our mission is to support and encourage families during this special time in their lives. Our vision is to see parents feel confident and supported, children grow healthy and happy, and families build strong and lasting connections. We believe that every family deserves respect, dignity and care.
"I can’t speak any more highly of Olivia’s Place. All the help they have given me throughout my pregnancy and after pregnancy has been nothing short of amazing. And not just material items, I really appreciate the emotional support. It was like getting a massive warm hug! One less thing I’ve got to stress about. Forever grateful.”
