Swap session set to support South West mums

The much-anticipated ‘Swap N Raise’ event returns on Saturday, 10 May 2025, offering the community a special opportunity to support local mothers and families through the Radiance Network South West.

Hosted at the picturesque Solitaire Homestead from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM, this biennial event promises a day filled with community spirit and charitable giving.

Attendees can look forward to a second-hand clothing swap, complemented by delicious food and drinks, live music performances, engaging raffles, auctions, and more.

All proceeds from the event will directly fund Radiance Network’s vital 1:1 in-home support program, ensuring that essential assistance reaches the mothers and families who need it most.

CJ Heins, founder of Swap N Raise and Peer Support Worker at Radiance, emphasised the event’s significance.

“Swap N Raise is more than just a fundraiser; it’s a community movement,” she said.

“By coming together, we not only promote sustainable fashion but also provide crucial support to local mums navigating the challenges of early parenthood.

“The funds raised enable us to offer personalised, in-home assistance, making a tangible difference in their lives.”

Anne Mackay from Radiance Network said the program sprang was born from an obvious need in the community.

“A year ago, we started our pilot program for in home, one on one support,” she said.

“The need for the program came about when we noticed that nearly 20 percent of our referrals where not engaging with us.

“On further investigation we uncovered the reason for this, was that these mothers were too anxious or affected by Perinatal mental health complexities and were unable to attend any groups or seek the help they so desperately needed.”

Anne said most of those mothers were at isolating at home, with worsening symptoms.

“In one year, we have had over 150 referrals, and the intake of the program has been around 95 percent which is so pleasing,” she said.

“The testimonials from this program have been amazing, with mothers saying it literally saved them.

“The outreach program is aimed to build capacity for the mother, to support her emotionally in how ever that looks at the time.

“At the end of the 6 visits, our outreach worker’s goal for the mother it to have a plan in place, whether that be to be involved in our support groups, get a mental health plan or be engaged in other local community supports – it really is unique and is the only in home support that exists here in the South West.”

Since its inception, Swap N Raise has garnered immense community support.

The 2023 event raised over $30,000, significantly contributing to the continuation of Radiance’s essential services.

This year, the organisers aim to surpass previous fundraising achievements, further bolstering the support available to local families.

Radiance Network South West is dedicated to connecting parents with local services that support emotional wellbeing during early parenthood.

Their mission is to create a supportive community that enhances parental emotional health, strengthens families, and nurtures community relationships.

Tickets for Swap N Raise 2025 are available now. Visit radiancesouthwest.com.au/swap-n-raise-2025 for details.