Like many fifty-somethings, I no longer have my mum around to spoil on Mother’s Day. Finding a meaningful way to honour her is tricky. This year, Geelong Mums’ Local Love Project gives me a mindful way to celebrate Mum’s spirit while paying it forward to other mums in need.

When I buy a beautiful Local Love Project handmade candle (for $25), I’ll be donating $10 (which is 100% of the profit) directly to Geelong Mums, a volunteer group who collect, sort and safety check donated babies’ and childrens’ gear for distribution to local welfare organisations and maternal health nurses who ensure the  items reach mums in need.

“The Local Love Project encapsulates everything that Geelong Mums is about – local people sharing their time and talents to help local families facing hardship,” says Bianca Clair from Geelong Mums.

“All funds raised will go to the Geelong Mums Rental Appeal, which aims to raise enough funds so Geelong Mums can move out of a tiny storage shed into a warehouse, enabling the organisation to meet the growing demand for its service.”

Since starting just 12 months ago, Geelong Mums has helped more than 250 families by rehoming 700 individual baby items such as cots, prams, car seats and clothing.

About the candles

Created and promoted using the donated talents of clever local folk … bespoke fragrance with hand-painted label artwork, housed in a gorgeous glass vessel and beautifully gift-boxed.

Retail stockists and Online

Ampersand – 1/138 Pakington Street, Geelong West

Le Neik Hair – 85 Nicholas St, Newtown

Buy online at:  geelongmums.bigcartel.com  ($10 postage for up to four candles to Geelong or Melbourne)

On Sunday 11 May, I’ll be lighting one of these enchanting candles in memory of my special mum and in support of other mums doing amazing work, paying it forward to other mums.

I know Mum would approve.