Support for victims escaping domestic violence has been given a significant boost this month through Cityhope Care’s A New Thing initiative organised and run from the charity arm of Ipswich-based Cityhope Church.
Each May, Queensland marks Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month (DFV) to raise community awareness and to send a message that violence will not be tolerated.
Cityhope Church senior minister and director of Cityhope Care Mark Edwards said since 2017 the church had distributed more than $230,000 worth of Cityhope care packs.
A New Thing was launched on 29 June 2017 as a dedicated response to bring the community together in united action to help families leaving DFV.
During DFV month in 2019 it is anticipated a further $250,000 worth of Cityhope care packs will be distributed.
Pastor Edwards said support from the broader community had been extremely encouraging.
“The content of the packs go beyond providing much-need day to day items. They extend to messages of hope and encouragement.
“Cityhope care packs are distributed through agencies such as Queensland Police, Queensland Health, Queensland Ambulance Service, DV court programs, DV high risk teams and many community-based support programs.
“Together we are making a difference and change the experience of individuals leaving DFV and that of our first responders who are helping.
“We are thrilled to hear that the police from the vulnerable persons unit now carry these packs in their cars,” he said.
There are a number of ways to offer support and make donations. These include:
- Donate cash
- Register for the packing day 15 May 2019
- Register your fundraising event
- Register to become a Cityhope collection point
- Ways you can help and items on shopping list
- Register for the latest newsletter
- Like and share on Facebook
Learn about Cityhope Care collection points or A New Thing initiative at this website.
