In Kenwick, a childcare centre is making a big difference.
Sisters Lisa Houlihan and Nicki Rocca, who run Kenwick Childcare Centre, are donating a full year of free childcare to a family in need; no government subsidies, no gap fees, and no strings attached.
It’s a rare and generous act at a time when many families are doing it tough and when the cost of living is biting hard.
“We see it every day,” says Lisa. “Families are trying to stay afloat — and for some, the cost of childcare is what pushes them over the edge. Even with the highest subsidy, some just can’t keep up.”
The sisters, who have worked in early childhood education for a combined 30 years, took over the Kenwick centre in 2023. They say giving back has always been part of their dream, and now they’re putting that into action in a way that could change someone’s life.
The idea isn’t new to Lisa and Nicki. Last December, they ran the same initiative through their sister centre in Kelmscott. The response was so powerful, they knew they had to bring it to Kenwick too, but this time, they’re opening it up to any family living in the Perth metro area.
The chosen family will receive 12 months of free childcare; fully funded by the centre, with no support from the Child Care Subsidy, which legally requires a gap fee to be charged.
“We knew we’d have to carry the full cost,” Lisa says. “But it was never about the money. It’s about helping someone who just needs one opportunity to get back on their feet.”
Applications are open now via a simple online form. Submissions will be reviewed personally by Lisa and Nicki over a two-week period.
“We’re not looking for the most dramatic story,” Nicki explains. “We just want to find a family who really needs this — whether they’re struggling financially, mentally or physically.”
Lisa and Nicki’s generosity isn’t a one-off. Community care is at the core of what they do every day.
Their Kenwick centre is known for its community kitchen, stocked with everyday essentials like pasta, nappies and baby formula, free for any family who needs them. They also donate packed school bags at the start of the school year and give out Christmas hampers to families in local women’s refuges.
“Being part of the Kenwick community means something to us,” says Lisa. “We’re not just here to care for children — we’re here to support families who may not have any other support system.”
A staff member and service user, Demmi Annis, at the centre affirmed this.
“This centre is more than childcare — it’s a safe space,” she says. “You see it in the little things. Whether it’s helping a parent in crisis, running fundraising days, or just being there with a kind word — they’re always giving.”
The sisters know that opening up about personal struggles can feel daunting. But they want local families to know that their application will be handled with care and kept completely confidential.
“If you’re thinking about applying — please do,” Lisa says. “Don’t ever feel like your story isn’t worthy. Everyone’s journey is different, and sometimes, all it takes is one helping hand.”
If you or someone you know could benefit from a full year of free childcare, you can apply here: https://form.jotform.com/250858507384870
