Heart for the House 2021

A strong and healthy church seeks the flourishing of the city which it is a part of. Last year, CityCare was able to respond in the first few weeks of the pandemic to provide emergency relief for people in desperate need across our nation and continues to do so. Practically, this meant pivoting
to emergency food relief, sourcing and packing bags of food for delivery to homes in COVID-safe ways. Through this crisis, our core mission to see
individuals, families and communities thrive was amplified, with the great need of people in our cities more apparent than ever.

Today, our work with vulnerable youth, women, children and families continues as we seek to bring positive change across our cities. Coming out of the COVID-19 crisis, many children and families will need additional support, and CityCare’s work with these groups in the days ahead will be vital.

Homes of Peace
Over the pandemic, Domestic and Family Violence skyrocketed across the world with the pressures of lockdown increasing the risk for women and children in unsafe homes. CityCare’s Homes of Peace, transitional homes for women escaping violence, became critical in this season and continually in demand. In Australia, one in six women have experienced physical and/or sexual violence from a partner since the age of 15 (AIHW 2018). Ongoing support for women and children in our community who have been subjected to, or are suffering from domestic violence is crucial.

Support for Young People & Families
Our youth workers and volunteers are already beginning again the work of empowering young people to step confidently into their future. After a disruptive school year last year, CityCare is supporting by providing mentoring and safe spaces for them to engage with positive role models. We are also focusing on rebuilding hope through strong partnerships in our community and support through playgroups, family mentoring, financial education and ‘Our Village Project’, bringing support to families caring for vulnerable children in out of home care.