Single Mothers & Newborns
The
issue.
The majority of single parents being women in Australia sits at a staggering 86%. Yet single mothers work on-average more hours weekly than their female counterpart. Sadly they still face double the risk of financial hardship compared to partnered mothers with 32% living below the poverty line while supporting their family. Due to the responsibilities of motherhood and financial provision strain, many single-mothers struggle emotionally and physically.
39% of children in sole-parent families are growing up in poverty.
86% of sole-parent families are headed by the mother.
How Does This Happen?
A mother can become a single-parent of a newborn or older children due to any number of reasons. Ranging from divorce and separation, complete abandonment, domestic or sexual violence or childbirth as a single individual. Though there is government-provided housing and financial support it is minimal. 87% of mothers are concerned about their long-term financial circumstances and feel significant insecurity around the cost of housing.
With children being the biggest victim in these situations, the risk of challenges in adult life is significantly higher.
Who Does This Happen To?
Over half of single mothers have experienced an abusive relationship, forcing many to choose between poverty and violence. With the high living costs facing Australia, many single mothers are unable to provide financial stability for their home, putting a third of sole parent households below the poverty line. With the financial stress of housing and childcare, sole-mothers frequently work more hours than their female counterparts with no children, or who are part of a 2-parent household.
Making a Difference.
Single mothers facing financial poverty directly affects the current and adult future of their children. Being able to provide food, school clothes, medical necessities and other requirements, ensures children do not live in poverty despite a financially challenged household, this is why we partner with Baby Give Back to provide necessary support, individual appointments and physical needs such as car seats, cots, clothing and other necessities. Consider donating to our Virtual Gifts Fund to support these families with necessary vouchers and support.