Australian Red Cross and Kimberly-Clark Australia have renewed their commitment to supporting families in Galiwin'ku (Elcho Island) with a multi-year partnership for the 'Baby Hub' program, as new data shows demand for support has tripled over the past three years.
Initially joining as Baby Hub's first major corporate supporter in 2021, the three-year partnership will ensure continued provision of essential Huggies baby care products to the Northern Territory community and support the work of the Baby Hub team.
550 km away from Darwin, and with the nearest hospital a plane journey away in Nhulunbuy, Galiwin'ku is one of the most remote locations in the country - and Baby Hub was first established in 2012 to address the community's high preterm birth rate, which is three times the national average.
Predominantly staffed by Yolnu community members, Baby Hub offers mothers and children access to critical care in a culturally safe space.
In addition to midwifery and nursing support, the Hub provides developmental activities, educational screenings, and access to essentials like nappies, wipes, clothing, and food.
Since 2021, Baby Hub has seen a 200 per cent increase in baby development support - and attendance at educational parenting sessions has grown significantly too, from 85 to 375 attendees.
Over the next 18 months, the program will expand to increase the provision of food, vehicles, and staff housing - New partnership secures long-term future for Elcho Island's Baby Hub, as demand for support increases threefold.
Red Cross senior partner advisor Angela Guestrau said the Hub is not just a support service, it's "a catalyst for change - where mothers and children can access critical support whilst also fostering a deep connection to culture and country".
"It's a lifeline for babies, toddlers and families in Galiwin'ku," she said.
Kimberly-Clark ANZ managing director Belinda Driscoll said working with Australian Red Cross on the Baby Hub program is an opportunity for the company to "make a meaningful difference in the Galiwin'ku community".
"We're delighted to be extending our partnership for another three years. At Kimberly-Clark and Huggies, we believe that all babies deserve the best start in life, and by supporting the Baby Hub team we're proud to invest in early childhood development and help support the needs of parents in Galiwin'ku," she said.
"This partnership is not just about delivering immediate support though; it's about investing in the long-term future of this co-designed and community led initiative. It forms part of our overall ambition to support 30 million people by 2030 and it's also an integral part of our RAP journey."
Baby Hub team leader Bridget Woods said Kimberly-Clark's ongoing support will enable the Hub to continue to provide "high-quality, responsive care" to the community.
"We're excited to see our partnership grow, ensuring every child has the resources and care they deserve," she said.
