Support services for vulnerable women in Toowoomba boosted by Heritage Bank donation
27 April 2021
Toowoomba-based women’s support organisation Protea Place has received a much-needed boost thanks to a donation from Heritage Bank.
Heritage presented Protea Place with a cheque of over $4300 as a beneficiary of monies raised from the sale of its 2021 calendar. Protea Place is a dedicated women’s day refuge providing showers, laundry, meals, clothing, and toiletries, as well as access to housing, health and domestic and family violence support services.
Protea Place CEO Amanda Dalton said the funds from Heritage would help them continue their services and empower vulnerable women in Toowoomba to get back on their feet.
“We aim to create a safe and welcoming environment for vulnerable women who may be experiencing homelessness or disadvantage,” Ms Dalton said.
“At Protea Place women have the opportunity to gain a sense of normalcy and connection by accessing basic luxuries that we take for granted like a hot shower, a cooked meal or even just a place to sit down and relax.”
Ms Dalton said the demand for support was strong with around 220-250 women coming through the doors each month.
“Our aim is to break down barriers for vulnerable women by providing a safe day space where women can receive holistic care under one roof. Rather than having to go to five or so different places, they can come to Protea Place and connect to emergency accommodation and other support services.
“Importantly, we are not creating dependencies, rather supporting and empowering women with the resources to rebuild and transform their lives.”
Heritage Area Branch Manager Sharma Haller said, “It can be extremely isolating for women experiencing hardships relating to physical safety, emotional wellbeing, housing, and financial security.
“Protea Place provides a place of safety, dignity, and acceptance; somewhere women believe they matter. As people-focussed organisation, this focus on genuine connection is something that resonates very strongly with our values at Heritage.
“We’re absolutely delighted to present these funds to Protea Place and help them continue making a positive difference in the community.”
PHOTO (L-R): Heritage Bank Grand Central Branch Manager Heather Welch, Protea Place CEO Amanda Dalton; Heritage Bank Area Branch Manager Sharma Haller.
