Partnership with HOST/HART

We’re excited to report that Lou’s Place has now joined forces with the Homelessness Assertive Response Team (HART) and Homelessness Outreach Support Team (HOST).

As part of this partnership, our team is rostered for weekly outreach at Central and Town Hall stations. Working with other inner-city services, we talk to rough sleepers, offer immediate support and link them to appropriate housing, health and welfare services. 

This collaboration strengthens our presence in the inner-city homelessness network and enhances our capacity to connect with women experiencing street homelessness. It also ensures a coordinated, multi- agency approach to support. 

Donor Night

In May, we had the pleasure of opening our doors to our donors, champions, advocates and partners for our annual supporter night.

The highlight was hearing from one of the most resilient women we've ever encountered. She lost custody of her daughter due to a 15-year drug addiction, trauma and mental health issues, which brought her to Lou's doorstep in 2019. Now four years sober and mentally stable, she sees her daughter weekly with restoration plans underway, breaking a three-generational cycle of addiction. Her message: healing is possible with the right support, and no one is ever too far gone to come back.

One of our new volunteers, Claire McCarthy, facilitated a Q&A with Rebecca Fitzpatrick, chair of the board, and Genavieve Sakr, programmes manager, to share our current challenges, proudest moments and future vision.

As always, our Marmalade Foundation volunteers rolled up their sleeves to make the night a success. We are so grateful for their support and to everyone who took time out of their busy schedules to attend. 

NAIDOC Week 2025

NAIDOC Week at Lou's Place is always a special opportunity to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. 

We hosted a range of activities, including two First Nations movie screenings, complete with popcorn and lolly bags. Ngumpie Weaving led a weaving session. In addition, Lou’s ran a jewellery-making session using material with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander colours.

One of our Aboriginal women led an art session. She shared her culture and the meaning behind dot paintings, before guiding others to create their own artworks. It was truly a creative way to learn, connect and to honour Aboriginal culture.

All women who attended the NAIDOC week events took part in creating a beautiful wall hanging for Lou’s Place.

Later in the week, clients, volunteers and staff enjoyed a NAIDOC community BBQ, prepared with native meat rubs and seasonings. The lunch provided a spirit of community and respect, as well as an opportunity to learn more about Indigenous culture.

Photography by Amanda Lawson

Supporting Culturally & Linguistically Diverse Women - Case Study

Inclusion is at the heart and soul of Lou’s Place, so we were touched when a member of our community, who has experienced significant marginalization in her life, decided to document and share her journey with us as a case study.

You can read the full case study below.

What is the driving force behind Australia’s hospitality to those in need?

A case study at Lou’s place by K.H. Lee (2025)

Acknowledgement

I am writing to express gratitude for the incredible help and support many women from linguistically and culturally diverse origins have received since I have known about Lou’s Place. I first visited Lou's place during the COVID-19 period in December 2021, when I was facing difficulties due to isolation and a lack of social interaction. One of the staff members at Lou's place, Alice, welcomed me with a warm smile, and showed me respect, empathy and cultural awareness. She introduced all the programs they had to offer and gave me details about the new place they would be moving to soon. Thanks to her hospitality, I was encouraged to access Lou's place again. I have sometimes received assistance from Lou’s place since 2024.

I am also very grateful for the incredibly kind and sincere guidance provided by the service manager, Hannah. Hannah is always respectful, gracious, and also very positive, which has given the many women who visit there much courage. Hannah has also demonstrated the ability to integrate cultural awareness and strong communication skills in serving clients, making them feel more comfortable. I would also like to express my thanks to Client Service Officer Jenni, who has been working tirelessly to assist clients such as me. She possesses a wonderful and deep understanding of various clients’ needs. For example, when I was in a very desperate situation, she was able to refer me to a caseworker for Opal card assistance, which saved me from paying a $200 train fine penalty. Lastly I wanted to express my gratitude to Darcy, who is also one of the client service officers – she is very empathetic and sincerely listens to the clients doing her very best to help them.

Introduction

The objective of this feedback is to express gratitude from the many clients accessing Lou’s place for the amazing help and support the staff of Lou’s place have shown to women from various cultural and linguistic backgrounds and for how hospitable the staff members have been. Staff members’ have incorporated hospitality and cultural sensitivity which has provided many ladies opportunities for social interaction. Lou’s place achieves this by offering various learning programs and enjoyable activities including music, arts, yoga and mindfulness. Formulating and understanding the relationship between personal and professional needs of clients in a charity context is important to assist vulnerable women so that they can achieve their goals. It also provides them with social interaction through various enjoyable activities in a relaxing and nonjudgemental setting.

The first part of this paper looks at various aspects of staff at Lou’s place including:

• how hospitable the staff members are;

• what ability they have to integrate cultural diversity in serving their clients;

• how they encourage their clients to benefit from services in a non-judgemental community and

• what programs and activities are available

In the last two parts, this paper will look at how staff members’ hospitality examined in the first part will help lead clients to have better social interactions in a non-judgemental setting using different activities and learning programs. This should encourage clients’ desires to learn something new through the learning programs & activities offered in a relaxing, wonderful, and non-judgemental setting that Lou’s place creates. The first part analyses the abilities staff need to have to effectively assist clients, as well as the importance of the relationship between staff members and clients. Finally, the conclusion expresses gratitude for staff members’ tireless efforts to help their clients and to encourage more communities, more local governments, and more people to become aware of the great programs Lou’s place has to offer. It also identifies what abilities Lou’s place may have that are more effective for their clients and what sort of strategies clients themselves can employ to fully obtain benefits from Lou’s place.

Hospitality, cultural sensitivity, strong communication skills, and empathy

When communicating with the public, migrants may experience interactions with locals that can be demoralising, if not hostile. This could be due to cultural and linguistic differences, unfamiliarity, or inherent biases. On top of that, people in Australia are sometimes judged based on their skin colour and nationality, rather than their abilities and skills (Maddox & Gray, 2002; Herring, Keith, & Horton, 2004; Keith & Herring, 1991). However, many women from various cultural and linguistic backgrounds have a different, more positive experience as they start to access Lou’s place and the services there. Lou’s place has provided women in need with assistance since 1999 and aims to provides a safe environment for all women offering them comprehensive care in a non-judgmental community. At Lou’s place they can access a stunning array of services including meals, showers, clothes, laundry, medical care, legal assistance for domestic abuse, crisis referrals, and case management.

Incredibly, there is no racial or cultural discrimination for women in this charity setting. Any woman who needs assistance is welcome. The staff members provide vulnerable women with hospitality, empathy, and cultural awareness which helps remove barriers that they have experienced in society. Also, the staff members of Lou’s place have always shown every client kindness and hospitality. Whenever clients came in, they greet customers with a bright smile and a comforting tone when they explain their programs and vast array of activities to clients. This had led to more clients accessing Lou’s place where they are able to benefit from various programs and assistance Lou’s place provides. Increased safety, access, and equity for all groups is a result of staff members efforts to provide culturally sensitive services and exhibiting empathy in addressing clients needs. This may also encourage clients to attend appointments and feel comfortable coming in to access services (Bennett & Morse, 2023: Stewart, 2006).

It is likely, the Service Manager has encouraged staff to integrate cultural awareness into client care and this creates a relaxing environment where cultural and racial discrimination is completely absent, removing barriers to equity. Her dedication can improve understanding, equality, and accessibility for women from various backgrounds.

A country's cultural and diplomatic standing can indeed be reflected in how its social workers interact with marginalised populations (Bennett & Morse, 2023). Like these two authors’ state, it is very important to acknowledge the sincerity staff members of Lou’s place display in helping marginalised women from culturally and linguistically diverse origins as this can inspire others in our society. The staff members’ of Lou’s place are applying their culturally sensitivity through their communication skills by using empathy and understanding in tackling diversity and equity issues clients face. Generosity is thought to not only support the community but also generate a positive social or public reputation for society (Chen et al., 2017; Porter and Kramer, 2002; Wang et al., 2019). In the next paragraph, the benefits from providing a better environment with social interaction for clients will be explored further.

Social interaction

Staff members of Lou's place try to provide a welcoming environment and to improve their services which leads to improved attendance at appointments (Bennett & Morse, 2023: Stewart, 2006). By doing so, it is believed that staff members can strengthen their relationships with clients to enhance their well-being. The staff of Lou’s place are able to build trusting relationships with clients centred on providing a welcoming and hospitable environment at Lou’s place and providing them opportunities for social interaction. In this relaxing setting, Lou's place creates intrinsic motivation for women from different cultural and linguistic backgrounds to come to Lou’s place and engage in social interaction (Lee, 2021). For example, when women first come to Lou’s place, they didn’t converse much with others, and ate while watching TV. However, with the support of staff, they gradually began to meet one another, allow each other space when using the washing machine, exchange information, and share their respective cultures with each other. This is a good example showing how Lou’s place facilitates social interaction.

The increased social interaction created by the welcoming environment has a significant impact on the women's mental health. Simply being in a new location did not guarantee that all women made use of the increased chances for social engagement, as their motivation was influenced by a range of internal and contextual factors (Lee, 2021). This provides a useful lesson to other countries who try to enhance the well-being of vulnerable women. One such example at Lou’s place is when a staff member sat with a new client and tried to watch TV with her so that the lady felt comfortable and relaxed.

Another example is when a client arrived in a fit of rage, upon which the CEO of Lou's place invited her into her office and listened to her life story and even prepared tissues for her. We were deeply touched by the CEO's generosity. What propelled clients to engage in more social interaction was the vast array of activities that they could engage in at Lou’s place, which they mentioned were fun and enjoyable (Lee, 2021). In the next section, the activities, learning programs and therapeutic groups provided to clients will be discussed further.

Activities, learning programs and therapeutic programs in a non-judgemental setting

By offering person-centred and tailored assistance to women, Lou's Place aims to establish trustworthy relationships with clients so as to improve the client’s personal welfare. In addition, it aims to construct and provide a safe environment for all women by offering comprehensive care in a non-judgmental community. Staff members are welcoming and empathetic in this setting which extends beyond merely providing assistance to include learning programs and a wide range of activities. These include workshops for health, creative writing, yoga, music, art, sewing, and jewellery-making so as to give clients meaningful and lifechanging experiences (Cockburn-Wootten & McIntosh, 2020). Women from various backgrounds mentioned that they did not have this relaxing environment in their home country, and were happy that Lou’s place provided them person-centred and innovative programs that enhanced their individual well-being. They can engage in enjoyable social interaction and other activities there (Lee, 2021). They said the new learning environment at Lou's pace offering a wide range of activities like creative writing, yoga, art, painting, music, sewing, and jewellery making, was interesting and pleasant.

Some women have experienced severe hardships such as domestic violence, homelessness and placing children in foster care and in these cases, Lou's Place offers therapeutic groups to assist them. The clients are given the autonomy to select social contacts in the organisation and several different activities that can be beneficial to them (Lee, 2021). As Barron (2006) notes “this independence affords greater opportunity to adapt one’s environment” (Lee, 2021; Barron, 2006, p. 196). Like these two authors mention, some women believe that these activities have helped them with their self-esteem. Furthermore, many clients have claimed that sewing is really beneficial because it not only allows them to mend their clothing but also saves money. Learning new skills and partaking in engaging activities can increase self-esteem by instilling a sense of achievement and competence (Yadav, 2024). For example, a few clients mentioned that they came for support and food, however, through their exposure to the learning activities offered, they gained self-esteem. To reach both Lou’s place and clients’ goals, continuous improvement from collaborative and culturally responsive staff can improve services for marginalised woman from different cultures (Bennett & Morse, 2023). The skills staff possess such as cultural sensitivity, empathy, and communication skills help encourage clients to engage in learning programs and enjoyable activities that might benefit them (Gretzinger & Hicks, 2024). This non-judgemental community can positively change the lives of clients as well as help build a healthy society which provides dreams and hope to its vulnerable citizens.

Conclusion

I have written the feedback in this paper to express my gratitude to the staff of Lou’s place for the support they provide to marginalised women and others from different cultures now and into the future. Your philanthropic legacy and generosity is greatly appreciated and it will be remembered. This feedback paper hopes to spread the word about the beautiful assets Lou’s place has so that more vulnerable women will have the opportunity to share the spirit and purpose of the Lou’s place. The discussion in this paper also provides an overview for government and communities to encourage direct engagement not only with the clients that access Lou’s place but also to the many donors who support it. The paper illustrates what skills and abilities staff of the Lou’s place posses to work tirelessly in serving vulnerable women. This can be helpful in formulating strategies to build a wonderful, non-judgemental community where every woman is treated equally. Many clients are experiencing difficulties and may need something to boost their self- esteem. They were encouraged through social interaction to engage in enjoyable activities in a relaxing and safe environment at Lou’s place. In summary, this is an important community where women are encouraged to have a better life perspective that helps them reach their goals and navigate their identity. This paper also expresses my heartfelt gratitude to the staff members as well as Lou's Place CEO, Mandy, for their support and kindness over the years. Lastly, I hope that the warm stories of support provided by staff and a thorough understanding of their dedication will be shared with more people in communities around Sydney as well as around the world. I also hope that the family and future of Lou's place will be filled with abundant blessings, and that the gift of love will be delivered to them.

Reference

Barron, B. (2006). Interest and self-sustained learning as catalysts of development: a learning ecology perspective. Human Development, 49(4), 193-224.

Bindi Bennett & Claire Morse (2023) The Continuous Improvement Cultural Responsiveness Tools (CICRT): Creating More Culturally Responsive Social Workers, Australian Social Work, 76:3, 315-329, DOI: 10.1080/0312407X.2023.2186255

Chen, M.-H., Chen, C.-C. and Jiang, Y. (2022) ‘Risk reduction effect of hospitality philanthropic giving: Theoretical Framework and empirical evidence’, International Journal of Hospitality Management, 103, p. 103224. doi:10.1016/j.ijhm.2022.103224.

Cockburn-Wootten, C., & McIntosh, A. (2020). Bridging hospitality education and community. Hospitality Insights, 4(1), 3-4. https://doi.org/10.24135/hi.v4i1.74

Godley S, Romocki LS. Celebrating 10 Years of Pedagogy in Health Promotion: In Defense of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Antiracism in Public Health Pedagogy. Pedagogy in Health Promotion. 2024;10(4):208-209. doi:10.1177/23733799241293162

Lee, K. (2021). International students’ experiences of English language learning in their home countries and Australia. Figshare. https://doi.org/10.25949/21366858.v1

Lou’s place. (2025). Lou’s Place. Retrieved July 2, 2025, from https://www.lousplace.com.au/activities

Uzogara EE, Lee H, Abdou CM, Jackson JS. A comparison of skin tone discrimination among African American men: 1995 and 2003. Psychol Men Masc. 2014 Apr 1;15(2):201-212. doi: 10.1037/a0033479. PMID: 25798076; PMCID: PMC4365794.

Yadav, S. (2024, November 13). Learning a new skill can significantly boost your Self-Confidence. Medium. https://medium.com/publishous/learning-a-new-skill-can-significantly-boost-your-self-confidence-1086e772cb4

A Message from Amanda Greaney, CEO

Over the last year at Lou’s Place, we reached record numbers of women seeking support—women from diverse backgrounds, many facing homelessness, financial hardship, or deep loneliness. Overwhelmingly, the vast majority have experienced domestic or family violence, or other traumatic events throughout their lives. Their experiences remind us daily why our work is so essential. 

We understand that the women who walk through our doors often come with complex needs, including significant mental health challenges. Many have faced repeated judgement elsewhere. We remain a low-barrier, non-judgemental space, dedicated to offering genuine compassion and understanding. 

This year, we also focused on strengthening our infrastructure—enhancing data collection, refining our processes, and expanding our team and programmes. These improvements enable us to respond more effectively to the urgent needs we encounter each day. 

Our success is the collective achievement of our devoted staff and volunteers, our board, the Marmalade Foundation, our donors, partner organisations and the courageous women who trust us with their care. We thank you for making this journey possible. 

Together, we will continue to provide a safe place where ALL women can access support and shape a future of hope. 

Unite Against Violence: No More Empty Shoes

Empty Shoes, Martin Place

Lou's Place stood up again this year—raising awareness about Domestic and Family Violence and demanding real change. We partnered with the 2024 NSW Vigil Collective for our No More Empty Shoes campaign at Martin Place on 26 November, as part of the UN's 16 Days of Activism.

Empty shoes on plinths told the story—each pair represented a woman whose life had been stolen that year. We honoured survivors and stood with those still living in fear.

This issue belongs to all of us. 

As our keynote speaker Darryl Gardiner put it:

"While female survivors' voices can never be replaced by a man's, it's critical that we, as men, add our voices to this conversation."

Delia Donovan (DVNSW CEO) and Daniel Principe (2025 NSW Australian of the Year nominee) challenged us all to take responsibility. Melinda Schneider's performances of My Voice and Courageous struck a deep chord.

The public walked among the plinths, each the bearing name and date of a woman lost in 2024. The most powerful moment came when those names were read aloud and roses placed beside each pair of shoes. The silence was deafening.

Yet there was hope. As Darryl said:

"Today, I want to speak not just about pain, but about the power of change. We aren't helpless bystanders. It starts with the courage to say, 'This is not acceptable.' This isn't just about stopping violence; it's about building a world on respect and kindness."

Thank you to everyone who stood with us. Your support made this year's vigil bigger and more impactful than ever. Funds raised are being used to support an additional DFV case worker at Lou's Place.

Together, we say: Unite Against Violence. No More Empty Shoes.

Please save Tuesday, 25 November for Empty Shoes 2025.

Photography by Amanda Lawson

Melinda Schneider

Plinths of empty shoes

The Hon. Jodie Harrison, The Hon. Mark Speakman, Rebecca Fitzpatrick (Lou's Place), Delia Donovan (DVNSW), Nadine Taylor (Hope and Heal)

Remembering unnamed woman

Introducing Laura Prittie, our Philanthropy Manager

Laura joined Lou’s Place in September 2024 as our Philanthropy Manager. She brings over 10 years of experience in business development, sponsorship and corporate partnerships, along with a strong background in leading diversity and inclusion programmes. 

Her desire to combine commercial expertise, a love of problem-solving and a passion for social impact led her to leave the corporate sector and join the team at Lou’s Place.

As a serial dog foster carer, Laura particularly enjoys meeting Lou’s furry friend visitors. We’re thrilled to welcome her to the team.

Mary’s Story: A Safe Place to Begin Again

When Mary* first came to Lou’s Place in 2022, she was in crisis. She faced severe mental health challenges and substance use, and exhibited behaviours that had led to exclusion from multiple services. She had been sleeping rough for some time, which made it incredibly difficult to access support and maintain stability.

At Lou’s Place, Mary was met with compassion and flexibility. Through our drop-in centre, she found a safe, welcoming space where she could have a hot meal and a shower. She was given emergency clothing and used our phones and laptops to reconnect with family—including her estranged daughter. Here, she had a place to rest and recharge.

Over time, Mary built trust with staff and began to engage with other women. She sought support, took time to herself and explored the services available to her. 

Lou’s arranged for Mary to see a mental health worker. However, without a stable location, maintaining regular contact for treatment was challenging. Lou’s worked closely with Mary and her mental health team to ensure she could meet them in a familiar and safe environment. This continuity helped her to receive treatment and improve her overall well-being.

With growing stability, Mary took another courageous step; she started a methadone programme to help manage her substance use. Lou’s Place also provided advocacy to help her navigate the complex housing application process. 

For the first time in years, Mary has an active housing application and a real chance at stability. She is slowly rebuilding her life. With the support of Lou’s Place, she is taking small but powerful steps towards independence. 

Donate to help more women like Mary: DONATE HERE. 

• Donate $50 for emergency supplies.

• Donate $100 to cover food for the week.

• Donate $200 to cover one night of crisis accommodation.

• Donate $400 to help us fund the growing casework programme.

*Name changed for privacy.

Always Mum

The Always Mum programme is a 10-week programme which provides support and guidance through to mothers whose children are in out-of-home care. Its core offerings are community, shared experience, and essential knowledge. Our most recent programme engaged 29 mothers and 63 children.

Participants shared their feedback: 

“I'm not alone. There are things I can do to get my kids in my life in a positive way. How to be strong, understand my situations and how to go through the process and look after myself and my baby.” 

“I’m not alone. I now know how to positively impact my kids’ lives while caring for myself.”

The program also provided over 400 hours of case management related to child protection matters. 

A notable case involved Amina*, a refugee mother engaged in Children's Court proceedings due to concerns around substance use and domestic violence. After completing the Always Mum and Connecting Through Change programmes, Amina faced significant challenges navigating her case.

Amina’s case manager organised a meeting with the Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ) to identify additional support needs: trauma counselling, relapse prevention and parenting programmes. Amina then received one-on-one sessions at Lou’s Place with a translator, offering a safe space to explore the impact of her past trauma.

Despite the challenges of balancing court expectations with her healing journey, Amina remains committed to her personal growth and hopes for a future where she can reunite with her daughter. 

The Always Mum programme supports many mothers like Amina as they navigate complex challenges and work towards rebuilding their families.

*Name changed

Connecting Through Change

The Connecting Through Change programme supported 59 women through its core 7-week programme and its 5-week outreach programme at WHOS. Additionally, 90 women received over 350 hours of domestic and family violence case management support. Key services included brokerage for accommodation and phones, food assistance, counselling, advocacy and referrals to other services.

One such woman is Jane.* Jane approached Lou’s Place after escaping an abusive relationship with her three children and relocating to a refuge. Following assessment, Jane was deemed at high risk. Her case manager at Lou’s coordinated with the refuge to ensure holistic support.

Lou’s assisted Jane with applying for a Victim Services Immediate Needs Support Package and an Escaping Violence Payment. 

In addition, Lou’s provided practical support such as a pram for her youngest child. Jane also received help securing housing and childcare subsidies. As she began to feel more stable, she opened up about her experiences. 

Jane is now enrolled in the next term of Connecting Through Change and has built a support network at Lou’s Place. She often visits for meals and activities, and has expressed deep gratitude for the community that has helped her feel safe, supported and empowered.

*Name changed for privacy.

What is the Drop-In Centre?

The drop-in centre at Lou’s Place offers a safe and welcoming environment for women in crisis and seeking support. It provides essential services, including breakfasts, lunches, takeaway meals, emergency clothing and toiletries, as well as laundry facilities and showers. 

Women can participate in a range of social and therapeutic activities: meditation and breathwork, yoga, karaoke, sewing, art, piano, jewellery making, creative writing, mindfulness and games sessions. They can also access specialist legal clinics, health clinics and job-seeking support.

Whether looking for a specific service or simply wanting a space to relax, the drop-in centre is open to all women who need a comfortable and supportive space. It can also serve as a soft entry point to our other programmes, including drop-in casework, Always Mum and Connecting Through Change.

The Drop-In Case Work Programme

Hannah Kelly

The Drop-In Case Work Programme is designed to provide one-off or short-term case management support to women coming to Lou’s Place. Unlike traditional support models, there is no restriction on how many times a woman can seek assistance. 

 Key focuses of the programme include: 

• crisis stabilisation

• addressing immediate needs

• homelessness support

• reducing systemic barriers.

There has been a significant increase in demand for urgent assistance over the past year. This reflects the broader socio-economic challenges faced by women: homelessness, domestic and family violence, financial distress, and health-related crises. 

Many women who come to Lou’s Place face complex, intersecting challenges* that require a flexible and responsive service model. Our team works to ensure that every woman receives the support she needs to stabilise her situation and move toward a more secure future.

*Intersectionality: refers to how different social categories—such as race, gender, class, sexual orientation, and ability—sometimes interact and create obstacles that are often not understood within conventional ways of thinking. (Kimberlé Williams Crenshaw, 1989)

Volunteer profile: Massage Therapy

Deb is a volunteer who provides massage once a week. She has been part of the volunteer team for four years. She answered a few questions about her volunteer role.

What drew you to work at Lou’s Place?

I had always been interested the potential of massage for healing and enhancing feelings of calmness and well-being. Having experienced a very difficult time of grief, I knew first-hand how intentional touch can bring about a sense of calm and settle the mind or invigorate the body and lift mood. 

What are the challenges of providing massage therapy at Lou’s?

When I first started volunteering at Lou's, I was sometimes confronted by some of the women's stories about their lives. Some are so heartbreaking. I have learned to listen, but never to comment or give advice. I want them to see me as an empathetic person who is not a social worker or person connected to the judicial system, but instead a person who can show them a small window into investing in their own sense of wellbeing, no matter how challenging other areas of their lives might be at that time.

How do you think massage therapy helps the women who come to see you? 

Massage can be expensive, and many of the women who come to Lou's might not be able to access it elsewhere. It is often seen as a luxury, but of course it is so much more than that. In its most simplified form, it is a method of reducing stress, lessening pain and tightness, increasing relaxation and improving mood. 

However, it is also a means of providing human touch and warmth that is safe, non-sexual and not in any way transactional. 

What do you like about volunteering at Lou’s?

Coming to Lou’s is one of the bright spots in my week. I love the energy of the women and the other volunteers. I see so many positive influences at Lou's Place and I am so thankful that I have been given the opportunity to give something of myself and share my skills. 

How do you think massage therapy helps the women who come to see you? 

Some women love to chat, while others slip into the 'twilight zone' where they are not quite asleep but deeply relaxed. On occasion, I massage women who are highly stressed or agitated. Their bodies can be very rigid and tense and they are often in a state of heightened vigilance, with a fast pulse and shallow, irregular breathing. It is one of my great joys as a massage therapist to work with these women, who after a half-hour massage begin to relax, and in some cases, fall asleep on the table. Testament indeed to them feeling safe and secure.

Save The Date: Lou's Circle

Lou's Closet May 2025

About Lou’s Closet

Lou’s Closet is back for 2025 and will take place from 1-3 May at The Tramsheds in Sydney.

Lou’s Closet is a designer and second-hand clothes sale. It was created by women to help ALL women in need.

The Closet is a community-driven event that raises funds which go directly to support the women who visit Lou’s Place in Redfern. Many of these women experience homelessness, domestic violence and financial hardship as well as mental health and addiction issues.

Funds help save and change lives of these mums, daughters, sisters, aunts, grandmas, nieces, partners and friends.

May 2025 Event Details

The Tramsheds, 1 Dalgal Way Forest Lodge, NSW 2037

• Thursday 1 May, 9am-7pm ($10 entry)

• Friday 2 May, 9am-6pm ($10 entry)

• Saturday 3 May, 9am-3pm (free entry)

Event link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1122392910409?aff=oddtdtcreator

Donating Clothes

If you’d like to contribute your designer or vintage wear to Lou’s Closet, then please get in touch with the wonderful Eugenie: eugenie@lousplace.com.au

#louscloset @louscloset_sydney

Lou’s marks its 25th birthday celebration

This year, Lou’s Place hit a major milestone— its 25th birthday. And like any great celebration, there was plenty of cake, fun and reflection. During the day, we celebrated with clients, serving up a special BBQ lunch and cake, culminating in a few rowdy games of Bingo. That evening, we swung open the doors and welcomed a large group of supporters and friends. For some, it was the first time seeing our new, much larger space, while for others, it was an opportunity to chat with staff about their different roles and how our drop-in services and programs support the many women now coming to Lou’s.

Alexa Haslingden, Chair of Lou’s for the past 8 years, thanked everyone for their contribution in helping Lou’s become the midsize, well-respected women’s service it is today. She also formally introduced Rebecca Fitzpatrick as the new Chair, passing the baton.  However, by far the most poignant moment of the evening came when Maureen (name changed), who visits Lou's Place, shared her story. The room fell silent as she spoke about the impact Lou’s has had on her life, reminding us all why we were there.

Lou’s Staff

Playing Bingo

Bingo!

Richard Clarke at the BBQ

Maureen’s Story

My name is Maureen, and I am 45 years old. 

The first time I ever engaged with Lou’s Place, I was an absolute mess, emotionally and physically. I was pregnant with my fourth child. My other three children had been removed from my care a few months prior.   I was still with their abusive father and I had no family to turn to. 

My mother went missing when I was 8 years old after leaving me in the care of my father. It wasn’t until 4 years later that she was found buried under a house. She had been violently murdered by her new partner. My father kicked me out at the age of 13, and I had my first child at the age of 16. 

After having my first child, my life was filled with abuse at the hands of my partner, the father of all my children. I eventually turned to drugs and alcohol. For many years, all my life consisted of was abuse, drugs and alcohol, which then eventually led to the removal of three of my children. In 2006, I  found out I was pregnant with my fourth child, who was removed from my care at birth. 

After having my newborn baby unable to leave the hospital with me I found myself at my lowest point possible. I started drinking uncontrollably until I would black out. I gave up my house and became homeless. I had lost all hope. I eventually came to the CBD and found a refuge on Victoria Street. 

I was lucky enough that this refuge was close to Lou’s Place. I started coming to Lou’s Place and they helped me with drugs and alcohol rehabilitation, helped me gain access to housing and supported me with clothing, toiletries and furniture when I needed it. 

They also offer an amazing, parenting program called “Always Mum” which helped me gain access to my youngest son, gave me confidence, and gave myself and other struggling mothers a safe place to share our stories in and environment where we didn’t feel judged. 

Lou’s Place were able to later help me with doing a construction course and to get my traffic control ticket which then helped me gain employment.

A few years ago, my daughter was having some struggles, and I was able to bring her into Lou’s Place. They jumped right into action to help and support her. The first day she came in, they provided her with crisis accommodation and vouchers and then eventually assisted her with permanent housing and then later they helped to have her eldest child returned to her care after them being separated for 7 years. 

Lou’s Place is truly a community of women helping women. We all have our own issues but we never feel judged here. I have made a lot of great friends at Lou’s and I am always happy when I am able to bring a friend here that is needing support. 

Here at Lou’s Place, they provide breakfast and lunch 5 days a week and for some women, the only time they have a decent meal is when they drop in here. 

Coming to Lou’s, you know you always have access to food, toiletries, a free phone to make any calls you need, access to computers and internet, support with housing, access and referrals to other support services, assistance with filling out forms, assistance in times of crisis, financial hardship assistance, support letters and everyday things that especially homeless people can’t easily get. 

Lou’s Place is the only drop-in centre that is solely for women and does not allow men. A very amazing thing is that you don’t need a referral to come here, like you do with pretty much every other service. 

I am an alcoholic, I don’t take any other drugs, but I do drink about 2 days a week, I also have COPD, a lung disease. This makes it difficult for me to work at times, especially in the colder months of the year as I work in traffic control and often have 1am starts. But it’s a massive relief to know that I can always rely on Lou’s Place to help with assistance or even just to be able to come in for a meal or a friendly chat. 

Lou’s Place is one of a kind, and a safe haven for women, no matter who they are. 

I currently have my own home, I am employed, I have a great relationship with my children and grandchildren, and I’m part of an amazing community of women here at Lou’s. I’m no longer homeless, or in an abusive relationship and I no longer take drugs. 

I know where I was, I know where I could have been, but look where I am today, and I have Lou’s Place to thank for that.

No More Empty Shoes

Building on the success of Lou’s Place “Empty Shoes” campaign, which honoured the victims of Domestic and Family Violence in November 2023, we are proud to announce our collaboration with the NSW Vigil Collective 2024, “Unite Against Violence: No More Empty Shoes".  We are honoured to be working alongside Hope and Heal, DV NSW, Muslim Women Australia, The City of Sydney, Dress for Success, Moving Forward, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Full Stop and Evolve Yourself to host this crucial  event in Martin Place during the United Nations' "16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence. " 

The goal of this advocacy is to raise community awareness, broaden conversations, and raise funds to support the salaries of two dedicated DFV case workers at Lou’s. We are actively seeking sponsorship and deeply appreciate those who have already joined us for 2024.

 “Unite Against Violence: No More Empty Shoes” is a one-day installation in Martin Place featuring pairs of shoes—each pair representing a woman who has lost her life to domestic or family violence in Australia. In 2023, 56 women died from gender-based violence. As of October 8, 2024 we have already lost 53 women (according to Counting Dead Women Australia). The significance of this year’s vigil is even greater, with additional media attention, the ongoing legal reforms, and an increased push for more front-line service funding. We need to make our voices heard.

 The vigil will be held on Tuesday, 26 November from 8am - 1pm, with speeches starting at noon. Each pair of shoes will be accompanied by a victim’s name and a flower placed in their honour during the reading of the names.  Visitors will be invited to walk beside the empty shoes and reflect on the lives lost. Lou's staff will be present to offer information  and answer any questions.  Featured speakers will include DVNSW CEO Delia Donovan, Youth Advocate and Educator Daniel Principe and Speaker, Counsellor, Survivor, Darryl Gardiner. Our special guest vocalist, Melinda Schneider will be performing 2 songs. 

 We invite you to join us in Martin Place on 26 November. Come together to remember, reflect and influence change.  Please share our message on social media. We need your voice to add to ours! Please also consider sponsoring a pair of shoes. We are actively seeking sponsors and corporate partners. If you know of any organisation/group that might be interested in getting involved, please contact Laura Prittie | laura@lousplace.com.au | 9358-4553.

For more event information visit: Unite Against Violence: No More Empty Shoes Tickets, Tue 26/11/2024 at 8:00 am | Eventbrite (the event is free and you don’t need to register but Eventbrite will create a handy calendar invite if you do). You can also access the event via our Facebook page: (2) UNITE AGAINST VIOLENCE: No More Empty Shoes. A vigil to honour the victims of domestic violence | Facebook

Always Mum

The Always Mum programme continues to be a vital source of support and empowerment for mums with children in out-of-home care. During the first two terms of 2024, 20 mums successfully completed our core 10-week programme. Collectively, these mothers have 55 children. The impact of the programme is clear in the participants’ positive feedback: 

"I grew as a person and as a woman. I loved these last 10 weeks." 

"I have absolutely enjoyed this program. I have grown so much, and I am inspired and looking forward to the future with my children." 

Data gathered before and after the program shows that it consistently meets and exceeds participants’ expectations, offering a space for growth, connection and hope.

Always Mum continues to build strong relationships with the community and sector. Notably, 33% of the women self-referred, demonstrating the programme’s growing reputation as a trusted community resource. Meanwhile, 38% of referrals came from local government and non-government services, including WAGEC, NSW Health, Mudgin-Gal, and residential rehabilitation services. Additionally, 28% were referred by the Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ).

One particularly inspiring story comes from an Aboriginal mother who joined Always Mum in October 2023. Despite experiencing social anxiety and a mistrust of services, her strength and resilience shone through, and she completed all ten sessions. Recently, she began our Connecting Through Change programme and has become an active, engaged participant, offering advice to other women in Always Mum and encouraging them to continue to persevere through the program’s challenging content. Witnessing her transformation has been a privilege.

We are very grateful for the ongoing support of the Ruth Ritchie Foundation which enables Lou's Place to run this vital programme. 

Always Mum Space

Connecting Through Change

Connecting through Change continues to grow and develop, with 17 women completing our core 7-week programme during the first two terms of the year. This term, 67% of the women attending the programme were self-referrals, highlighting the growing recognition of the program’s value within the community. The remaining 33% of referrals came from local services such as Women and Girls’ Emergency Centre (WAGEC), the Young Women's Christian Association (YWCA), Women's Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Service (WDVCAS), Mission Australia, residential rehabilitation services, and the Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ).

One participant shared:  "I am not alone, I am important, I can say NO!" 

We also ran another outreach group at WHOS, which provides a range of evidence-based therapeutic programmes aimed at achieving recovery from alcohol and other drug dependence. Eleven women completed the tailored programme, and participant feedback has been overwhelmingly positive:

"This group exceeded my expectations; the information was relevant and extremely helpful, and the group was incredibly well run and nurturing." 

Another participant reported that the programme helped her understand her reactions to trauma and develop essential coping skills. As Connecting Through Change continues to evolve, we remain committed to empowering women through connection, education, and support.

Lou’s Closet 2024

This year marked the 14th Lou’s Closet, held for the first time at The Tramsheds in Forest Lodge. The event showcased a stunning selection of designer and high-quality second-hand women’s clothing. The venue buzzed with the lively energy of the community, which always make Lou’s Closet such a success. A huge thank you to the incredible, unwavering generosity of Australian designers: Carla Zampatti, Bianca Spender, Moss and Spy and Baz—donated brand-new clothes to the Closet. We're also  deeply grateful to the dedicated team of volunteers who worked tirelessly for months to make this event possible. This year, Lou’s Closet achieved its most successful year to date, raising an incredible $141,000!

Lou’s Closet not only generates essential funding to support services at Lou’s Place but also creates a fantastic opportunity to bring women together. Shoppers walked away with big smiles and bags full of  treasures at very reasonable prices, all while knowing they were supporting a great cause.  Thank you to everyone who attended Lou’s Closet this year—can’t wait to see you again next year when the Closet opens its doors from 1 to 3 May. Mark your diaries!

Lou's Closet team

Lou's Closet preparation

Lou's Closet silent auction

Lou's Volunteer Night

In May, we had the pleasure of hosting a special evening to celebrate our incredible team of volunteers. The night was filled with delicious nibblies, refreshing drinks, and the warm company of those who generously give their time and energy to Lou’s Place. 

Our guest speaker, River Neyland from Kirkton Road Centre, shared their deeply personal journey as a trans person. It was a privilege to hear River’s story, and we so are grateful for their openness and willingness to engage in such a powerful conversation. Our volunteers eagerly participated, asking insightful questions like:

“How does someone know that they are trans?”

“What’s the difference between sexual orientation and gender identity?”

“Do you need to have surgery in order to be transgender?” 

River also led us through a fascinating quiz on the history of the LGBTQIA+ community, sparking even more interest and discussion among our volunteers. 

We extend a heartfelt thank you to all the volunteers who attended and made the evening so special. We're truly grateful to have you as part of our team. 

River Neyland and Rebecca Fitzpatrick

Rebecca Fitzpatrick, Board Chair