Quota club chips in for Heartfelt House

June 19, 2008

Heartfelt House, an Alstonville organisation that provides support to adults sexually abused as children, has once again good reason to be thankful to the Northern Rivers community.

Various service clubs in the region have once again decided to support Heartfelt House when donating their annual proceeds.

Amongst them is the Quota Club of Alstonville/Wollongbar, who are long-time supporters of Heartfelt House.

President of Quota Stephanie Gooding said: “We try hard to share the money around, there are so many worthy organisations.”

Vicki Hamilton, Executive Officer of Heartfelt House, said that the support of the community was vital to Heartfelt House.

“Receiving no government support means every cent we receive from service clubs is precious,” Vicki said.

“Many government organisations have expressed their support for us but when it comes time to put their hand in their pocket they pull back.

“Historical sexual abuse does to fit neatly into a funding basket.”

Heartfelt House is hoping with the new government showing real empathy for groups such as the homeless, it will mean a brighter financial future for Heartfelt House.

The non-profit organisation has recently had to move to new premises which has meant an increase in rent.

Vicki said the new premises are worth every cent — they are more spacious and have security of tenure — but still the extra dollars needed to be found.

“We have seen recently in high-profile cases that sexual abuse crosses over all socio-economic sectors, both victims and perpetrators come from all walks of life,” she said.

“The effects of being sexually abused as a child mean it is impossible to just ‘get on with life’.

“Survivors need help and we are here to give it.

“The vital parts of that equation are those such as Quota Alstonville/Wollongbar who make it possible through financial donations.

“A heartfelt thanks to all of you.”

Heartfelt House commences its last group for the year in the coming weeks.

Taking the First Steps is an 18-week program for adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse.

The group will meet weekly for three hours. The program costs $225. Places are limited to six. Apply by phoning 02 6628 8940.

PICTURED: Larry Rawstorne, Chairman of Heartfelt House, Vicki Hamilton, Executive Officer Heartfelt House, and Stephanie Gooding, President Quota Alstonville/Wollongbar. The picture was taken outside Heartfelt House new premises on the corner of the Bruxner Highway and Sneaths Road, Wollongbar.

Share and Enjoy: