Halcyon home owners raise $50,000 for domestic violence haven
Home owners across Halcyon’s lifestyle communities have come together to raise $50,000 to support victims of domestic violence through its donation to DVConnect.
The fundraising efforts come off the back of Halcyon and Mirvac teaming up to create a purpose-built domestic violence bridging accommodation facility which will provide a haven for women and their children effected by domestic violence. It will be the first purpose-built facility in Queensland and is set to be delivered in an undisclosed location in July.
Halcyon joint-managing director Dr Bevan Geissmann said he was proud to see home owners taking such initiative and showing tremendous support for a worthy cause.
“To have the support of our community members is a statement of the supportive and caring environment we’ve really invested in creating at our communities,” Dr Geissmann said.
“Our home owners are so pleased to be able to help make a difference in the lives of those affected by domestic violence, and we are extremely proud of the effort they have put into achieving this donation.”
A Gala Ball was held on Wednesday, 1 May at Kawana on the Sunshine Coast, with its 300 attendees raising $30,000 for the DVConnect bridging facility. Sunshine Coast mayor Mark Jamieson also committed a $9,000 donation.
Sports icon Duncan Armstrong MC’d the event, and guests heard the inspiring story of domestic violence survivor Kim Groenewald, who has a new life with the help of DVConnect.
Home owners across all of Halcyon’s communities have hosted an array of events in support of the initiative, including a ladies pamper day, trivia night, craft sale, movies under the stars, an Easter dance party and a high tea fashion parade.
All funds raised by Halcyon’s home owners will go directly towards furniture and fitout for the bridging accommodation facility.
DVConnect were forced to place 4,000 women and children in Queensland motels last year alone due to shelters being at capacity.
The bridging accommodation will go some way in closing the gap, comprising two one-bedroom, two two-bedroom and one three-bedroom units each with their own kitchenette, living area and courtyard. It will also have a communal kitchen and living room, a play area, and a residence for the onsite manager.
Halcyon and Mirvac will work in conjunction with DVConnect to provide a safe, stable and comfortable environment for women with children exiting domestic violence situations, within which they can create new life plans and, where relevant, re-enter the workplace with confidence.
If you, or someone you know is experiencing domestic, family or sexual violence, DVConnect can help you find a pathway to safety, away from violence. The DVConnect helplines are:
- Womensline 1800 811 811, available 24/7
- Mensline 1800 600 636 available from 9am – midnight, 7 days
- Sexual Assault Helpline 1800 010 120, available from 7.30am – 11.30pm, 7 days.
- For more visit www.DVConnect.org.
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