Catherine House starts appeal
Local
With two of its major fundraisers cancelled due to COVID-19 restrictions, Catherine House is hoping people will ‘dig deep’ and support its winter appeal now under way.
Fundraising and Events manager Jaylee Cooper said with the annual quiz night and long lunch not being held this year money raised from the appeal would be needed “more than ever”, particularly as the organisation predicts there will be an increased demand for its services in the months ahead.
“When the full effects of COVID-19 take hold it is likely there will be an increase in homelessness as a nation,” she said.
“The loss of jobs will have significant impact on those who will be unable to maintain their tenancies and potentially become homeless. People’s mental health has also been adversely affected throughout this pandemic and mental health issues are one of the leading causes into homelessness.
“COVID is a timely reminder that a crisis can affect anyone, just as homelessness can.”
Ms Cooper said one of the challenges for Catherine House in recent months had been ensuring clients continued to feel supported in a time of isolation.
When activities at the Women’s Centre stopped staff turned to Zoom and FaceTime to conduct sessions, with clients responding “enthusiastically” to learning new digital skills.
Founded by the Sisters of Mercy in 1988, Catherine House is the only organisation in South Australia providing emergency accommodation and support for women only.
To donate to the winter appeal go to www.catherinehouse.org.au
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