FROM July 2020 to June 2021, the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research reported 305 incidents of domestic violence-related assault in the Hornsby Local Government Area (LGA), 86 incidents in the Willoughby LGA and 177 incidents in the Ku-ring-gai LGA.
“The impact of COVID on women experiencing domestic abuse has been challenging, and the demand for our services is reflective in the significant increase of our referrals,” said Jacquie Murray, Fundraising and Communications Officer at Mary’s House Services. “The need for our services is increasing every month. Our refuge is full, and we currently have a long waitlist.”
Established in 2016, Mary’s House Services offers a refuge for women and children escaping domestic violence. The not-for-profit organisation is located on the lower North Shore. It provides case management, relocation services and safe shared accommodation for up to five families for an average three-month stay. A team of qualified female case-workers all work closely with clients, developing a tailored plan for them to move forward with their lives in line with their own goals and needs.
Due to the increase in referrals, Mary’s House Services requires more funding in order to provide additional caseworker hours to help more women and children in need.
“We are 100% reliant on our community and are in need for funding to meet the increasing need of our services. We need funding for additional resources. We are about to launch a Christmas appeal which will also include an ask for laptop computers for our families to support them to access employment, housing and to enable them to reach independence,” Murray said.
Every single dollar that comes to Mary’s House counts in practical ways in helping women set up a new future. A $50 donation can allow Mary’s House to provide a pack of essential items to clients and a $100 donation can provide access to transport for clients to take their children to school.
Opening its doors in November 2016, Mary’s House Refuge was conceived when the Parish manager of the Jesuit Province in North Sydney had an idea to maximise the use of the church property for improved social justice outcomes in the community. After conducting research into the local community, it became evident that there was a gap in services for families impacted by domestic and family violence in the North Sydney area.
A commitment was then made to establish a refuge accommodation service for women and their children using the newly vacant Church property. With the support of volunteers and local businesses, the property underwent a significant renovation. A service model was designed with the help of expert advisors and fundraising commenced in the local community and then more broadly across Sydney.
Today, Mary’s House Refuge accepts clients of all cultures and denominations from all around Australia and provides immediate support and accommodation, including the essentials of food, clothing and shelter.
If you would like to donate, visit https://maryshouse.org.au/donate-now/