Our Story
Parramatta Women’s Shelter first opened its doors on Christmas 2019 and is the seventh shelter in the Women’s Community Shelter network. Our shelter provides crisis accommodation to women and children escaping domestic & family violence and homelessness and can also house larger families, a unique offering that many shelters across NSW are unable to accommodate.
Thanks to the PAYCE Foundation, the Shelter (pictured) is currently housed in two large properties made available for this purpose as 'meanwhile use housing'.
Our caring team has supported 80 clients staying in this crisis accommodation, including during the COVID-19 crisis. As part of the Pathways Home initiative, we are also working with the PAYCE Foundation who have provided a number of properties for transitional housing as families continue to be supported towards regaining confidence and long-term stability and connection in our community. Our dedicated staff (pictured) have also provided this outreach support to more than 120 clients living in transitional housing so far this year.
What are we doing
We are raising funds to support our outreach program. The funds will be used to increase the number of working hours of our part-time caseworkers to provide more case management and outreach support to clients in transitional housing including: assistance with housing applications, Victim's Services Counselling, immigration support, referrals, liaising with schools, financial counselling and assistance, court support for criminal or law proceedings and general appointments.
Why are we doing it?
Our vision is a future free from domestic and family violence, gender-based discrimination and homelessness. We want to inspire, empower and support change for vulnerable families in our local community. Many of our clients are escaping domestic violence and / or homelessness and often have complex needs. Outreach ensures these women and their children are supported every step in this journey, from emotional support and wellbeing to practical assistance e.g. securing longer-term housing and financial independence from their abusers.
Our Team
Parramatta Women's Shelter is driven by a community-based, entirely volunteer board and run by our dedicated Shelter Manager (pictured). Staff are experienced case workers, social workers and child support workers, trained in client-centered, trauma informed practice, that work in a residential setting to provide a safe place for clients.
How you can help
Please donate to our crowdfunding campaign and share our story. We are so grateful for your support.
