MEMBER for Myall Lakes Stephen Bromhead today presented Forster Neighbourhood Centre with a $15,000 contribution to the development of a Women’s Shelter in Forster Tuncurry.
The $15,000 is on top of $95,000 community- raised money and $20,000 in pledges in kind and the last amount the Great Lakes Women's Shelter (GLWS) needed to operate for 12 months.
Mr Bromhead said there was possibility for more state government funding in the future.
“Earlier this month I promised to chase financial support from the NSW Government and I wrote to the Minister Barilaro to seek a grant and I am very pleased that he agreed with my submissions so that Forster Neighbour Centre’s financial target could be reached," Mr Bromhead said.
“As a White Ribbon ambassador and as a family man, I abhor domestic violence which is a despicable act no matter the circumstances.
“I congratulate all those individuals, groups and organisations involved in raising funds and awareness of the need for the Women’s Shelter and it is wonderful to see that their hard work is coming to fruition."
Mr Bromhead said the shelter's opening was well timed.
He said with the onset of summer, more alcohol was consumed which was one of the causes of domestic violence.
Great Lakes Women's Shelter president Julie Brady said they signed a lease for their main house today.
She said government and community could not fund the service alone, but together could make it possible.
Ms Brady said she hoped the model would be adopted across NSW.
