Newsletter - Issue 14 - Dec 2022
Our News
As I started to write a Christmas message for our December newsletter, I thought there was no better way to share the spirit of Christmas than by setting out how we, as a wonderful community, have made a difference together.
The Pop In community has:
Supported 370 women and children over the last 12 months
Worked intensely with 12 women in November alone
Welcomed 43 caregivers and children attend Play and Chat or Blackbox Parenting.
Received 101 referrals from community services and Government organisations such as the Police, Community Links Wellbeing, Centrelink, Bowral District Hospital and YWCA, over the last 12 months.
Received feedback, including qualitative and quantitative data, to re-enforce that the Pop In model is working
Heard from our clients that they feel supported, connected, and trusted, that they are no longer alone and are starting to regain control
Begun to make a serious impression on the legal fraternity and court system as to our value
It is also worth noting that over 60% of the women we support have contacted us directly - primarily through social media - and of all the women we have seen 50% have never spoken to any agency or person before.
I also wanted to include a few messages from members of the Pop In community.
"Thank you for organising a lovely Christmas celebration for your clients. It felt like a wonderful family gathering. Being a volunteer has also supported me to give, grow and reconnect with the community." ~ Pop In Volunteer
“I find it extremely fulfilling on a deep level to be able to support women and see the positive impacts upon them and their families as they move forward in their lives.” ~ Pop In Caseworker
“Play and chat has been a lifeline. It has reconnected me to myself and my community.” ~ Pop In Client
“I feel as though I have been listened to and believed for the first time." ~ Pop In Client
"It has been rewarding to see our financial support put to such a meaningful purpose." ~ Pop In Supporter
Finally, on behalf of the board, I would like to thank the entire Southern Highlands community for their generosity, advocacy, interest and support of Pop In and importantly for stepping up and saying NO to Domestic Violence.
Ways to support
Pop In could not keep its doors open without the generous support from our Southern Highlands community. As we approach Christmas, please consider making a donation to Pop In so we can continue to support the women and children in our community that do not have a safe and happy home.
Vicki Kelley, Chair Pop In
Our Results
Sandy recently left an abusive relationship. She and her two preschool-aged children are now living in her friend's garage until they can find a place to rent in the new year. Sandy has no income or savings as she was a stay-at-home parent whilst her partner worked, and since leaving the marital home she has applied for financial support but has not received any as yet. Pop In and other agencies have been supporting Sandy and her children - including providing Christmas food, toys and groceries - so they can find some joy over the festive period. To help women like Sandy and her children live a life free from violence, donate today.
Our Community
Last week, we shared Christmas cheer, laughter and stories at Pop In with a lovely lunch for fifteen of our clients and their children. With food provided by our partner, Oz Harvest our dedicated team of volunteers put together a table for all to enjoy.
Fabulous Christmas hampers, gift vouchers and presents for young and old were on offer for our clients to ease the financial and emotional stress of providing this Christmas time. We would like to extend a warm and huge thank you to:
Oz Harvest for wonderful donations of fresh foods this Christmas and throughout the year
Oxley College Students for their generous donation of presents, household goods and gift vouchers
Students at Chevalier College for their donation of care packs
The Exeter Slice Girls Tennis Club for gift vouchers
GIVIT, Goods360 and 4K for wonderful toys and presents
