Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Women's Shelter needs $100,000 to complete urgent repairs and renovations to its Shelter property and is calling on the community for support this end of financial year.
HKWS President Louise McCann said the community's support had made it possible for the registered charity to purchase a permanent and much-needed Shelter for women escaping domestic violence and homelessness in 2020.
But the new Shelter needs urgent repairs and compliance works to make it fit for purpose.
"We are running out of time and resources. The lease on our current rented property has expired and we can no longer afford to continue paying rent and a mortgage," Ms McCann said.
"We have less than two months to undertake urgent repairs and compliance works on our wonderful new Shelter before we must move in."
Importantly, the renovations will enable HKWS to offer a safe sanctuary for women with children for the first time, fulfilling a critical service gap in service provision that our community needs.
"It will help us provide a private, secure and segregated space for families, enabling the Shelter to expand to support to mums with children, who until now, we haven't been able to accommodate," Ms McCann said.
The funds would also provide for essential physical security measures including high fences, cameras and monitored entrances.
"Many women who seek our support are injured, alone, confused and very frightened for their safety. Keeping them and our staff safe and sound is our top priority."
More details about the campaign can be found on the crowdfunding platform Chuffed.org.
Ms McCann said the Safe & Sound would take the Shelter into a new era and enable it to provide more to help women in need.
"Every woman deserves a safe home and positive future," she said.
About Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Women's Shelter
Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Women's Shelter opened its doors in February 2015, offering safe emergency accommodation and support services to women facing domestic violence and homelessness.
HKWS offers accommodation for three months with an expert team of professionals providing tailored case management to help women reclaim their lives and create a safe and happy future. This includes access to health, legal, education and employment services.
The Shelter can support up to 10 women at a time. Women who cannot be immediately housed can access the HKWS Outreach Program.
