Becoming The Mother She Dreamed of Being

At the Caroline Chisholm Society, we believe in walking alongside women through every stage of pregnancy and early motherhood. Jessica’s story is a powerful example of how wraparound care can transform lives.

In late 2024, Jessica made the courageous decision to leave a 13-year relationship marked by family violence. Pregnant and without stable housing, she spent nearly six weeks couch surfing before a friend connected her with The Orange Door. From there, she was referred to the Caroline Chisholm Society when she was 26 weeks pregnant.

Jessica was met with compassion and practical support. Helen, her Practitioner, became her first point of contact; offering emotional guidance, connecting her with Centrelink, and helping her prepare for birth. When baby Eve arrived after a challenging labour, Jessica described the moment as overwhelming and beautiful: “I look at her and think how perfect she is, and I cry a little bit.”

Thanks to Helen and support from Caroline Chisholm Society, Eve was able to attend and benefit from BabySpa, Jessica said.

With the help of our Perinatal Mental Health Practitioner, Jessica navigated the emotional complexities of new motherhood. Today, Eve is nine months old. They attend playgroups together, and Jessica is preparing to re-enter the workforce and register for public housing.

Jessica’s journey is a testament to the resilience of women and the impact of holistic, person-centred care. We are proud to have been part of her story.