Ambrose Team take volunteers to Women and Children First Dee Why

Throughout 2024, the Ambrose team regularly took senior student volunteers to Women and Children First Dee Why.

A report from Connor Nicolaou, Prefect - Reville House Captain:

"Over the past few terms, several senior boys from St. Augustine’s have volunteered at the Women and Children First (WACF) shelter in Dee Why. WACF is a non-profit, community-based service dedicated to supporting women and children escaping domestic violence. Its mission is to ensure that women, children, and families feel safe, secure, connected and have the opportunity to thrive.

Each Wednesday, a group of senior students participates in the Homework Club. They help the children with after-school work and tasks, spend quality time with them, and offer friendship and support. While the seniors are with the children, their mothers attend workshops with other women facing similar challenges. This arrangement allows these women to connect, share their stories, and support one another, knowing their children are nearby, safe, and well cared for.

The Homework Club has become a source of joy for the kids, allowing them to engage with older students and experience positive social interactions. Reflecting on his time at the shelter, one of our seniors shared, “My experience at WACF has given me a firsthand look at the impact of family violence and how it affects people differently, especially at various ages. It’s taught me to approach others with empathy and respect, as we often don’t know what challenges they might face behind closed doors.”

This experience has impacted those involved and inspired future senior students to consider volunteering if given the opportunity, as it provides a unique and eye-opening perspective."

The College also donated gift vouchers and hampers at Christmas time. The thank you post from Women & Children First is available here.