Grant backs Southern Highlands families recovering from trauma

Women and children impacted by domestic violence in the Southern Highlands are receiving greater support after a local community hub secured vital funding.

Funding allocated to volunteer-ran centre Pop In in 2025 helped to support the organisation’s Learn and Play program – a space for mums and their preschool children to play and connect.

Director of Operations Louella Gratton-Smith said the program helps mothers rebuild relationships with their children that is gentle and grounded in science.

“Children require that attachment for their brain development,” Ms Gratton-Smith said.

She said children exposed to trauma in the home can experience neurological changes, leading to delays in education and emotional maturity, and a higher risk of mental illness, anxiety, and depression.

“If you took an MRI of a child who has witnessed violence or severe coercive control, it can look very similar to that of a soldier returning from the front line of war.”

Funding was distributed last year through the Southern Highlands Community Foundation, thanks to a supporting donation from PAYCE Foundation directed toward youth programs.

Founded about six years ago by local community members, Pop In was created to “walk with” women and children at any stage of their domestic violence journey.

Operating weekdays, the hub offers case work, safety planning, legal and housing referrals, access to shower and laundry facilities, clothing, and ongoing emotional support. In the past three years, it has supported about 2000 women and children across the region.

Beyond Learn and Play, programs such as Pop In Connect reduce social isolation by allowing women to build friendships while their children are cared for.

PAYCE Foundation Director Sophie Boyd said investing in youth-focused initiatives helps build stronger communities.

“Supporting programs that strengthen young people and families creates lasting, positive change,” Ms Boyd said.