Baby Café Frome will remain open through 2019 – thanks to the success of its Christmas auction.
In September this year, Somerset County Council announced plans to cut budgets to children’s services in the area, with fears that the Baby Cafe in Frome would have to close.
The group was concerned that its services would no longer be able to meet the needs of local parents, due to an increase in demand, impacting the most vulnerable and leaving Frome without vital services. However, the charity raised a total of £1,064.50, meeting its financial target, and allowing the group to remain open for 2019.
The online auction, held over three days, reached over 10,000 people and saw many of the lots going for over the retail price.
“What was so special about the auction was that it engaged the community. From the businesses and artisans who donated items – to everyone who bid, our success is thanks to them,” explains Charlotte Pidgeon, branch coordinator for NCT Frome.
“For parents, those early years are something you never forget. They can be your biggest challenge and the learning curve is huge. Many of those who rallied around the auction did so simply because of what Baby Café does – support families through this pivotal time.”
The number of families attending the weekly Baby Café drop-in sessions has doubled in the past six months and the group is looking to future-proof its service to meet the increase in demand.
Anyone interested in volunteering at Baby Café Frome can get in touch via its Facebook page or email: babycafefrome@gmail.com.
