ST AGNES’ Catholic Parish in Port Macquarie has launched a life-saving mobile phone donation program to support people experiencing domestic and family violence (DFV).
Partnering with national charity DV Safe Phone, the Parish is now the only official agency distribution partner between Taree and Kempsey, and is helping to fill a critical gap in local DFV support services.
“A working phone can be the lifeline for someone experiencing domestic violence,” said Tony Leahy, CEO of St Agnes’ Catholic Parish.
“It can mean the difference between being trapped or being able to call for help.”
More than 73,000 women cited DFV as the main reason for seeking help from homelessness services last year and 79 women lost their lives to DFV in Australia.
Locally, support agencies such as the St Agnes’ Youth and Community Hub in Port Macquarie are seeing a growing number of women in crisis, many with children and without access to safe communication.
The program invites the public to donate unwanted mobile phones, which will be securely refurbished and distributed to DFV survivors.
Donors are asked to factory reset devices before dropping them off at the Parish Administration Centre at 49 Hay Street, Port Macquarie.
“This initiative is not just about phones.
“It’s about showing up for our community and staff with real, practical support to build a more compassionate and safe community.”
Telstra is supporting the initiative by donating mobile phones and SIM cards to ensure recipients can connect with help immediately.
The Parish is also collaborating with Liberty Domestic and Family Violence Specialist Services to develop training and workplace policies that equip staff to respond appropriately when DFV is disclosed.
By Sis HIGGINS
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