Meet Vicki, our Western Sydney chaplain, who provides support to children. In addition, find out about our HopeStreet outings, Wills & Bequests program, and how you can support our Halo Ball in September.
As we pass the half-way mark of this year, I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering support and generosity. Your contributions have made a significant impact on the lives of those in need, and your kindness shines brighter than ever during this time of giving.
In this edition, we place a spotlight on Chaplaincy and the important role it plays across BaptistCare.
I also want to highlight our upcoming Halo Ball this September, an important evening that supports survivors of domestic and family violence.
Thank you once again for your unwavering support. Together, we are changing lives and bringing hope to those who need it most.
With heartfelt gratitude, Charles
Fortnightly fun is on the calendar at HopeStreet Port Kembla. These outings are offered to clients as part of HopeStreet’s aim of building strong and resilient communities.
Port Kembla Manager, Dianne Frohmuller, said the excursions enable clients to see different places and learn something new, as well as connecting them with other clients.
“They foster a sense of belonging, giving these clients an opportunity to connect with others, forge friendships, and experience the joy of shared adventures,” Dianne said.
One of HopeStreet Port Kembla’s more recent outings was to Shellharbour for a Stand-up Paddle Boarding class. Other activities have included visits to the Big Potato and the zoo, as well as picnicking with a view.
Over the last 12 months, BaptistCare HopeStreet raised an astounding $7,000 through community members recycling cans and glass bottles at Return and Earn locations around NSW, equalling 70,000 cans or 35,000 glass bottles.
“Every contribution towards HopeStreet, makes a difference, regardless of how big or small,” Head of Fundraising and HopeStreet Marketing, Brooke Stanton, said.
“What’s great about this initiative is that it’s not only great for the work we do but for the environment too.”
Do your part. Download the FREE Return and Earn app, choose BaptistCare HopeStreet as your charity of choice, return your cans and bottles at any Return and Earn location, and scan the barcode on the machine for funds to be transferred.
For more information, visit returnandearn.org.au
you make a difference?
For many people, leaving a bequest in their Will is an opportunity to give a significant gift to those who need it the most. A gift for BaptistCare HopeStreet means we’ll be able to support people who are:
• Escaping domestic violence
• Homeless or at risk of homelessness
• Unemployed
• Living on low incomes
• Children and youth.
BaptistCare CEO, Charles Moore, said a bequest is a chance to make a lasting impact.
“The generosity and support of donors, including those who choose to leave a gift to BaptistCare in their Will is truly special, and speaks into the future of BaptistCare.”
“I invite you to be a part of the BaptistCare story, and help us make a real difference to those we serve in our community,” he added.
Stand-up Paddle Boarding Shellharbour, with Port Kembla client, CarmenAcross BaptistCare, one role stands out as a pillar of strength and guidance, supporting individuals in times of challenges and uncertainty – and that’s Chaplaincy.
At BaptistCare, there are currently 77 chaplains who play a crucial role in fostering emotional well-being, a sense of belonging, and spiritual nourishment regardless of religion.
“We provide a listening ear and confidential assistance. We offer compassion and companionship through times of change, grief and loss, loneliness and isolation, and hurt and disappointment,” Chaplaincy Manager, Carolyn Bourke said.
You will find chaplains across all areas of BaptistCare, from aged care to community support. One of these dedicated chaplains is Vicki McPhee, who serves as the HopeStreet Chaplain, in Western Sydney.
Her personal and professional experience led to her current role.
“I work at a school supporting students who are struggling with strong feelings and emotions. The majority of my work involves being with them in the classroom or playground, where I’ll sit and listen, or play games and crafts.”
In addition to running group programs for children, and supporting staff, Vicki is also qualified to facilitate the Circle of Security Parenting program.
“In one of my parenting groups, I had a young dad, who said that he didn’t have his own father growing up, so he didn’t know how to be a dad himself.
Between January-June people accessed
Vicki, who has diplomas in Counselling and Pastoral Counselling began as an agedcare chaplain 15 years ago. Not long after, she moved into supporting counsellors and social workers who assisted families dealing with domestic violence.
“Personally, I’ve always been interested in helping children. I worked on the frontline with abused children, and was the Children’s and Families Ministry Leader and Kid’s Church Leader at my church,” Vicki said.
A few weeks later, he shared that he’d managed to calm his son down when he was crying.”
For Vicki, seeing the impact that chaplaincy - and these programs - can have on individuals, is why she does what she does.
“He was so proud and grateful to be a part of the program,” she said.
“To me, being a chaplain means being present in people’s lives, throughout their most difficult times. I want to show people they are not alone in this world, and there are those of us who do care.” To continue helping children in our community, donate today at baptistcare.org.au/donate
In January-June, 2023,
you helped: food parcels
61,163
distribute
17,271
44,411
provide every day 200 people over
Community centre clients
14,122 shop for food provide 727
deliver 2,344 hours of counselling
1,670 support clients over the phone people
meals
12,705 provide services for sleeping rough people
TOTALING
$1,603,618
On Friday, 1st September, the 6th annual BaptistCare HopeStreet Halo Ball will be held –an event dedicated to raising funds and awareness for victims of domestic and family violence.
The heart of the ball is to support families heal and rebuild after the distress of domestic violence. Each week in Australia, one woman loses her life at the hands of domestic violence.
General Manager Community Services & Housing, Robyn Evans, said for those who escape with their lives, it’s still an incredibly challenging ordeal, and it’s only the beginning of a long, arduous journey towards healing and recovery.
“When families escape domestic and family violence, they often find themselves overwhelmed and entering a complex world of disconnected support services,” said Robyn.
Over the past six years, the Halo Ball has raised more than $600,000, which has made a significant impact on the lives of so many by providing vital support and resources for those who need it the most.
“That is equivalent to providing over 600 X $1,000 care packages of food, clothing and toys for a family of four, or delivering our 12-week support program to 1,600 women, as they break free from the cycle of domestic and family violence,” Robyn added.
The Halo Ball promises an evening of elegance, entertainment and empowerment. Guests will be treated to a memorable dinner, and the chance to participate in a silent auction, featuring an array of exciting prizes.
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BaptistCare HopeStreet are committed to working alongside families living through trauma. “We empower people to overcome these challenges as they embark on a new, hopeful chapter in their lives,” Robyn said.
To purchase your tickets, or to donate visit baptistcare.org.au/haloball
“Henry and I were in the refuge for eight months, maybe longer. I was homeless, jobless, we had nothing.”
