CHAPLAINCY Pillar of strength and guidance

Across 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 v

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.

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.

Donate Now

To purchase your tickets, or to donate visit baptistcare.org.au/haloball