One Mother to Another co-founder Joy Reid (centre) with volunteers Chris and Stacey

The Foodstuffs South Island Community Trust has contributed $10,000 to Christchurch-based charity, One Mother to Another, to help support mums and carers in hospital with a sick newborn or child with care packages during some of their most challenging times. 

Founded by Joy Reid and Christina Buckland in 2016, the charity delivers over 6,000 care packages each year to neonatal and paediatric wards across the South Island. These packages contain practical items like deodorant, handwritten notes, comfort items and treats. They aim to support families with sick children in hospital and help mothers manage their own wellbeing while navigating mental health challenges. This $10,000 grant, provided in the form of Trents credit, has enabled the charity to buy more than 2,500 deodorants to include in their care packages, about five months’ supply.  

“We’re honoured to support the incredible work of One Mother to Another, whose care packages provide much-needed comfort to families during tough times,” says Lucy Boock, Chair of Foodstuffs South Island Community Trust. 

One Mother to Another CEO Joy Reid says the funding is a game-changer.  

“Being able to include essential items such as deodorant, which aren’t typically donated, make a significant difference in helping parents during hospital stays,” says Reid.  

“It’s a practical item that parents often arrive at the hospital without. Being able to feel fresh and cared for is such a gift in a time of stress and uncertainty. 

"It’s hard to feel human in hospital with a sick child. Something as simple as deodorant can make such a difference to someone’s experience and wellbeing. This donation helps us meet a need that’s truly important." 

The charity has 106 volunteers, most of whom are note writers, and there are about 30 volunteers who help put the care packages together each month.   

“It’s humbling that a care pack can have such a big impact. We include a handwritten note in every package and that personal touch seems to provide a real boost.” 

The charity also collaborates with organisations like Nurse Maude, Perinatal Wellbeing Canterbury and Pregnancy Support Nelson and delivers Christmas gifts to around 900 nurses annually to recognise their dedication and hard work, going the extra mile to deliver the care packages to parents.  

For families with a sick child spending the holiday season in hospital, One Mother to Another has launched a Christmas Givealittle campaign to bring cheer and comfort through special care packages. To donate, visit: https://givealittle.co.nz/cause/give-a-little-hope-this-christmas