HVO Support Fuels Calm with Mindful Mondays at Singleton Family Support

Singleton Family Support has been a cornerstone of the local community for over 30 years, offering free, confidential support for individuals and families facing life challenges, from parenting and housing stress to mental health and domestic violence. Through trauma-informed services, group-based programs and individual support, the organisation empowers locals to build resilience, connection and wellbeing.

One such initiative is Mindful Mondays, a weekly mindfulness program held at the Singleton Family Support centre. Developed in the wake of COVID-19 restrictions, the program was created in response to the prolonged isolation many community members experienced. Some sessions were even delivered online during lockdowns to maintain connection and continuity of care.

“After the pandemic, we saw just how much people had missed out on simple, meaningful connection,” said Lindsay Smith, Senior Social Worker. “Mindful Mondays became a way to bring people back together, offering calm, conversation and a sense of routine again.”

Designed to suit a range of personalities and needs, the program combines movement, mindfulness, gentle discussion and creative practices. “Everyone connects in different ways, some through movement, others through talking, or even through art. That’s why we’ve built Mindful Mondays to offer a bit of everything,” Lindsay explained.

Thanks to a financial commitment from Hunter Valley Operations (HVO), Singleton Family Support has been able to continue offering the program at no cost to participants. “Our core government funding only goes so far. Grants like the one from HVO make all the difference, they allow us to keep delivering programs we know truly make an impact.”

According to Lindsay, the benefits often ripple beyond the individual. “We’ve seen participants use what they’ve learned to support their children or encourage others to seek help. For many, this program is a gentle first step into getting the support they need.”

To learn more or register for the next round of Mindful Mondays, visit singletonfamilysupport.org.au.

If you have a community program that could benefit from an HVO Community Grant, learn more at hvo.com.au/community