DV survivors at Narrogin’s Share and Care refuge receive massive community-led donation haul

A Wheatbelt-based women’s refuge has been inundated with female products and children’s items after a massive donation effort from two local clubs leading up to Christmas.

Share and Care Community Services Group Narrogin was presented with sanitary and hygienic products, toiletries, confectionery items, handbags, children’s underwear, pyjamas and toys at the Narrogin Senior Centre on December 17.

After a combined effort by the Narrogin Probus Club and chair aerobics class, up to 160 people, including three families housed at the Rainbow Women’s Centre, known as Manna House, who need Share and Care’s service, will benefit directly from the gifts.

Share and Care program manager for family and domestic violence services Tara Lanciano said the team felt “incredibly grateful and supported” and that donations “reinforce that the community stands alongside women and children affected by violence”.

“Ongoing community support is essential, as women and children may need to access crisis accommodation at any time,” she said.

“Donations are particularly important in the lead-up to and during the Christmas period, when many families escaping violence are under increased financial pressure and may be unable to afford food, gifts, or basic household items.

“Simple items such as toiletries, clean clothing, pyjamas, or toys communicate care, dignity, and compassion.”

Ms Lanciano said majority of clients were accessing Manna House at “one of the most difficult and overwhelming times in their lives” and that donations help meet basic needs without judgment.

“Women and children often arrive in crisis, feeling frightened, exhausted, and uncertain about what will happen next,” she said.

“Receiving donated items can bring an immediate sense of relief, comfort, and safety during a time when everything else feels unstable.

“For children in particular, receiving new pyjamas, toys, or comfort items can help restore a sense of normality and security after experiencing trauma.”

As a member for both groups, Coral Mahony started the donation collection in September after speaking with Share and Care.

Ms Mahony said she was inspired by her involvement in the 2023 donation by the aerobics class to the local Salvation Army.

“Last year we helped to sell those food parcels to Salvos so I though what else can we do to help?,” she said.

“People love giving things, I’m finding.

“In a small way we’re making their lives better.”