Did you know that 40% of incarcerated women in Victoria are there on remand? This means they have not yet been convicted of any crime or sentenced. They’re held in prison until their court date where many are released immediately, though often with no housing and no support to turn to and often after months of incarceration.
Yesterday we went to visit the Melbournes women’s prison, Dame Phyllis Frost Centre (DPFC) and spoke to a dedicated team who specifically look after women being released. Many of these women are released on to the street, with little or no money and no family support.
We discussed the needs of the women and how we at NHC could offer support. We believe in working together with other organisations and industry experts to provide better and more targeted support to women exiting prison.
We will now be providing each woman in need with a Period Pack, a $100 clothing voucher, school and clothing supplies for children, sleeping bags and warm jackets if they are returning to the streets plus support and connections to other services such as housing, counselling, training and more.
We will also be making volunteer and work opportunities available at our Op Shop The Kala Space for women who are ready to enter the workforce.
We believe in connection and community. We believe no woman should be left behind or left alone. We believe that together we can provide better future options for vulnerable women and we’re proud to offer our support to women exiting prison.
