What is Safe Haven?
An outreach service of the Sisters of Charity, Safe Haven provides short term crisis accommodation for mothers and children affected by domestic violence. Staff at the shelter work with the clients during their time there to find the best options to support the mums and babies immediate and longer term needs.
This project was identified for support by the SCF as it fills a gap in community services. There is very limited crisis accommodation available to victims of domestic violence who need immediate support, not only in terms of accommodation but assistance to access other support services e.g. Centrelink, Court support, DOCS, and Legal Aid.
What role did SCF play?
With two small grants over two years, the SCF is providing funding for the most basic requirements: new clothes for babies and children, formula, bedding and health care products.
How were the funds sourced?
A fundraising lunch was held which raised nearly enough money to make two grants. Additional funds were sourced from the SCF’s tax deductible fund, which receives donations from members of the Sydney community. These donations are pooled and invested in perpetuity, earning interest that can be used to make grants such as this.
The result
Safe Haven can supply mums with babies and young children with their immediate, practical requirements, freeing up precious resources for working with these women on taking the next steps.
www.sistersofcharity.com.au