The Waterside Women’s Centre has secured vital funding from the MERKUR Community Fund to host free milestone events for 90 new mothers and their babies. The initiative aims to ease financial pressures for local families, combat isolation, and help mums build lasting connections within their community.
The Waterside Women’s Centre in Derry/Londonderry is the latest not for profit charitable organisation to receive funding from the MERKUR Community fund. The Centre, which engages with 1,700 people each year, is a safe, supportive space where women from all walks of life are encouraged to grow, to be heard, and to thrive.
Funding provided by MERKUR UK and its customers, has enabled the Waterside Women’s Centre to run three free ‘milestone events’ for new mothers and their babies. The events comprise Baby’s First Teddy Bears’ Picnic, Baby’s First Halloween and Baby’s First Christmas. The objective is to help families who might otherwise be unable to afford to celebrate milestones due to financial pressures. The funding has covered facilitation costs and refreshments for 30 attendees per event.
Rebecca Oak, Centre Co-ordinator, at the Waterside Women’s Centre said: “For many of the families that we support, the cost of celebrating their baby’s first milestones with keepsakes, activities and professional photographs is simply beyond their reach.
“But thanks to this funding, around 90 mothers and their babies are able to enjoy these special moments free of charge, creating memories that will last a lifetime. The events also help new mothers build friendships, reduce isolation and connect with the wider support that’s available through Waterside Women’s Centre. We are incredibly grateful to MERKUR Community for making these precious experiences possible for so many local families.”
Tony Boulton, Director of Public and Political Relations commented: “Waterside Women’s Centre is one of the many charities and good causes that make a real difference to so many people. The Centre has been active in the community for over three decades and we are delighted to be able to contribute to its overarching aim which is to build a brighter future for women and their families.”
Originally published on Coinslot on August 17, 2026. Republished with permission.