Graceville women's refuge
1 August 2018
On average, one woman is killed each week by a partner or former partner. This is a frightening statistic and one that The Salvation Army is dedicated to helping change.
Graceville Women's Refuge is one of 39 homelessness services The Salvation Army operates specifically for women and children escaping violence.
More than 200 women have found safety and new beginnings at Graceville Women's Refuge this year. The journey Graceville takes with them, helps clients to see a different future filled with hope.
Graceville has a range of on-site units for women (single or with families). Each woman is assigned a caseworker who assists them in their journey. A range of programs are available to each of the residents including:
- Positive Lifestyle Program
- Mentoring and homework club for children affected by violence
- Art therapy
- Music classes for children
- Job readiness courses
- Volunteer hairdressers and other services
Karen is a former resident at Graceville women’s refuge and now works for The Salvation Army. For years Karen was in an unhealthy, drug-fuelled and violent relationship. She thought she was the abuser. “But I gradually realised I was also being abused and I allowed it. I told myself it was okay that my partner would be violent and do things like cheat on me,” says Karen.
The violence and drug use cost Karen custody of her children. When she came to Graceville, Karen was broken.
The women at Graceville walked alongside Karen, assisting her with court appearances and support letters. She gained custody of her children again, and the Salvos provided counselling for the children to work through what they’d witnessed.
Today, Karen is working for the Salvos. “I feel like this is where I’m meant to be. I love the place I work and the people I work with.”
“They helped change my life. I was lost and thought, ‘is this all there is?’ They were patient with me and they believed in me when no one else did. Without them I probably would have been dead.”
Graceville Manager Captain Naava Brooks is thankful for the community support.
“Thank you for providing the opportunity that these courageous women and children have, simply because you care. We wouldn’t be able to keep the doors open without you. Thank you for supporting the Red Shield Appeal.”
Because of you, we were able to transform the lives of women and children affected by violence.