A series of affordable, family-focused activities are set to roll out at the Bethania Community Centre this April, with events designed to support wellbeing, celebrate Easter and ease some of the cost-of-living pressure facing local households.
The centre will host a bath bomb and bath salt workshop for teenagers and adults on 14 April – with sessions running from 9am to 11am and again from 12pm to 2pm.
Each session costs $5 per participant.
Bethania Markets founder Ashleigh Hassell, who runs the workshops, said the initiative is part of the centre’s broader focus on community care and mental health.
“Usually on Mondays, we run facials and wellness sessions for adults, but with school holidays on, we really wanted to focus on teenagers too,” she said.
“There’s so much pressure on young people right now – academically, socially – and this is one small way we can encourage self-care and stress relief.”
Participants will be able to create their own bath bombs and bath salts using ingredients such as Himalayan salt, dried lavender, rosemary and even coffee.
Sponsors from local businesses and organisations have contributed ingredients and will attend the workshops to support participants.
The following Saturday, 12 April, the centre will host a special Easter-themed market day from 8am to 1pm, with food stalls, live entertainment, a visit from the Easter Bunny and a children’s Easter bonnet parade.
A $2,500 donation from Transurban will help the market to distribute grocery bags to local families, filled with essentials from Woolworths.
“We’ve had families doing it really tough lately, especially after the recent cyclone,” Ms Hassells said.
“This event gives people the chance to enjoy Easter without worrying about the price of chocolate or a basic meal.”
Two local real estate agents have also contributed to a stockpile of Easter eggs, which will be handed out to children who take part in the bonnet parade.
Alternatives will be available for children with dietary requirements.
Ms Hassell said the market is about more than chocolate and crafts, it’s a way for the community to reconnect.
“I know of a small business owner, who now comes down regularly for our $5 food hampers,” she said.
“There’s no shame in it. These events are for everyone because everyone’s struggling in some way.”
The Bethania Community Centre has played a critical role in supporting the suburb through recent weather events and continues to offer a safe, inclusive space for locals to gather.
“Come down and be a part of the community,” Ms Hassell said.
“We’re not here to judge. We’re here to help.”
For more information about upcoming events, visit the Bethania Markets Facebook page or contact the Bethania Community Centre directly.
