FLEMING ISLAND —Whether a new or seasoned mother, the job is never easy.

And from changing dirty diapers and carefully scooping milk formula to homework problems and last-minute science fair projects, the job is also never done.

But, regardless, support is never far away. The MOMS Club is always there to help.

Serving mothers in Fleming Island, Green Cove Springs and Middleburg, the group is a soft cushion for local mothers to fall on.  It's a place where friendships form and support thrives. 

Formed in 2018, the club is a local chapter through the international MOMS Club nonprofit. It was started by Clay Education Foundation Vice President Heather Obermiller as a way to bring assistance to mothers in the community. Because "the days are long, but the years are short."

What started as six members has blossomed into about 50. And during its first year, it won the award for Outstanding Chapter Start.

"It grew quickly, once word got out about the group," said current president Margaret Wright.

From mommy coffee dates, Publix tours, nights on the town, playdates and hands-on activities to even meal training with new mothers, the group partakes in a multitude of activities slowing the hustle and bustle of motherhood. 

When Wright joined the group three years ago, she had a seven and one year old. Just last year, she welcomed an additional bundle of joy. She said the club has been an ongoing source of support in her life. 

"When you stay home, it's nice to have a community of other moms that understand your day to day and can be your support group," she said.

Wright became the club president last summer. Along with board members, she continually keeps track of membership and builds a monthly event calendar.

What sets the group apart, she said, is the fact that there is always something to fit each mother's specific needs. Late night events for moms with kids in school, park playdates for those with younger children, field trips and inclusive activities —all at an unlimited capacity.

"We try to have different things like that, and then we'll also do service projects and fundraisers."

In total, the group has also raised hundreds of dollars for charitable community organizations, such as donating $500 to the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, canned food drives and even giving back to Quigley House and the Food Pantry of Green Cove Springs.

"We usually pick two or three things a year that we want to focus on and [we] support those organizations."

A lot of the moms that join, Wright said, are new to the area and looking for a way to make connections. Many are also young or brand-new moms learning the ropes for the first time.

Within the last few years, especially with increased social media exposure, she said the club has continued to catch the attention of interested mothers. Most, she said, join by emailing momsclubfigcs@gmail.com or by messaging the group on their Facebook page.

"It's interesting because you have new moms coming in and they're wanting to meet other moms and develop friendships," she said. "And then, there's moms that have been in the group a while and their needs change as their kids get older."

Although each have their own story, they are bonded together by the joys of motherhood. And as children age and life goes on, Wright said, the moms never lose that connection.

"That's important when you're raising little ones, to have people to lean on and support you."