In April, the Salvation Army in Broken Hill contacted us about Home in a Box. There were six families living in a refuge, all due to move into their own home in the coming months. The only homewares they could afford were from the local second-hand store, where there was little to choose from. Thanks to Vincent Care Queensland, we were able to deliver Homes in Boxes to help each family and individual make their house a home.
The boxes also included backpacks, drink bottles, books, games and toiletries, thanks to Hockeys Real Estate, a local business who has supported the Mercy Foundation by running a Christmas Giving Tree over the past couple of years.
Over the last few years, the number of families and individuals assisted by this program has greatly increased. We have managed to meet the growing demand thanks to the support of the Sisters of Mercy North Sydney, the Mater Hospital Sydney, our many generous donors, suppliers and the dedication and commitment of service workers who work to house and support their clients.
Home in a Box has helped to set up a warm and welcoming home for more than 78 households this year. Each box is bursting with high quality, brand new homewares to help create a home for families or individuals moving from homelessness into their own home. Earlier this year, we received a number of hand crocheted and knitted rugs from the Knights of Malta Craft Group and a generous local resident. Their thoughtfully crafted creations have added a personal touch to each box.
A snapshot of recent recipients include:
- A woman in her 40’s who was homeless for two years, sleeping in her car
- A woman in her 50’s from a CALD background who experienced long term homelessness
- A family including three children with high needs, all aged under six years, homeless for 12 months
- A man who has experienced homelessness since 2015, sleeping rough for the past two years
- A pregnant Aboriginal woman in her late 30’s, who was homeless for most of her life
Thank you for your financial support that has enabled us to meet the growing need, helping more families and individuals to settle into their own home and restart their lives.
