On Thursday 27th November Haven Home Safe celebrated 10 years of Sidney Myer Haven, a transformative housing and wrap-around support program.
Community leaders, long-time supporters and past and present Haven Home Safe staff came together at McKenzie Quarters, Bendigo, to celebrate the impact of this unique program.
MC Denis Grinton, who has worked in the program since its inception, was emotional as he spoke about the profound changes he has witnessed in residents’ lives. There was scarcely a dry eye in the room as Denis interviewed Michelle, a former resident who had been sleeping in her car with her young son before entering the program.
She shared how Sidney Myer Haven helped her rebuild her life and create a bright future for herself and her now teenage son. Today, Michelle works in the community services sector, supporting young people with disability to gain meaningful employment.
The program is solely funded by Haven Home Safe, donors and philanthropic partners which ensures that the housing and program are designed and delivered in a way that best meets the needs of the residents.
Fundraising from the event and the 10 for 10 campaign will go towards continuing to deliver this program which costs $220,000 each year to run.
CEO Trudi Ray said “There are so many people who were instrumental in bringing the Sidney Myer Haven concept to life and then so many more who have been an integral part of keeping it running. This program is a testament to the impact that we can have when we have the resources to apply our knowledge and experience to housing and support programs. To our staff, supporters, partners, donors and residents – I say thank you, without your work and dedication this program would not exist. We look forward to seeing another 10 years of impact and exploring opportunity to replicate this elsewhere”.
A huge thank you to everyone who attended and to the event sponsors for all their support: The Riverlee Foundation, The Community Enterprise Foundation: Bendigo Bank, Agnico Eagle and Glenvill Projects.
You can still donate to the SMH 10 for 10 campaign here.
