WA Mums Cottage Secures Planning Approval for Major $300,000 Extension in Mandurah
WA Mums Cottage, a not-for-profit charity based in Mandurah, has received official planning approval for a significant $300,000 extension project at its Davey Street location. This development is designed to improve accommodation and support services for women and children facing hardship in the community.
Charity's Journey and Current Challenges
Established in 2016, WA Mums Cottage offers a comprehensive range of support services, including day respite, mentoring, counselling, advocacy, and emergency relief. However, the charity faced a major setback in 2023 when a rental increase forced them to vacate their previous property. They subsequently relocated full-time to their current Davey Street premises, which houses a cafe and op shop.
Founder and chairperson Kaye Seeber highlighted that the new location is insufficient to meet the needs of those they assist. "Moving into the one premises made it difficult to continue programs which are essential for the lives of women and children, so they are empowered and uplifted and able to go forward," Ms Seeber explained. She described the past year as highly stressful, relying solely on donations while dealing with the threat of homelessness themselves.
Transition to Davey Street and Generous Support
Ms Seeber recounted the charity's move to Davey Street, noting it was a challenging adjustment to fit into a single space. "One of our very philanthropic board members had an empty office in Davey Street and said we could have it rent-free for six months," she said. This board member later became their landlord, leading to a conflict of interest that required her to leave the board, but her generosity enabled the charity to purchase the property in 2024.
Details of the Planned Extension
The approved extension will feature a wet area accessible for all abilities and will provide spaces for various programs, including interview rooms, therapeutic activities, and creative workshops. "It's necessary, but it's very expensive," Ms Seeber remarked, emphasizing the financial hurdles involved.
To fund the project, a grant application has been submitted to Lotterywest. If successful, Ms Seeber hopes the extension will be completed in time for the cottage's 10th anniversary this December, marking a milestone in their mission to support vulnerable women and children in Western Australia.
