Carrie’s Place Domestic Violence and Homelessness Services has opened a new office in Maitland alongside the launch of a social enterprise, Carrie’s Coffee. The initiative is designed to create employment and skill-building opportunities for people impacted by domestic and family violence.
The move to the new premises strengthens the commitment of Carrie’s Place to providing trauma-informed support for women, men and families across the Hunter region. The expanded space allows for increased service capacity and closer proximity to key referral services.
The launch of Carrie’s Coffee marks a new chapter in the mission of the organisation to empower people on a path to independence. Through a training program and mobile coffee operations, participants gain experience in customer service, barista skills and hospitality.
The project was made possible through the support of the Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation (NPCF), which funded the mobile coffee van. Glencore provided support for personnel and training costs, while Early Bird Coffee supplied discounted start-up consumables.
NPCF spokesperson, Kirrah McClelland said the foundation was honoured to partner with the Hunter-based organisation to bring the project to life.
“This partnership reflects our commitment to supporting organisations that empower individuals and strengthen our communities,” Kirrah said.
“The initiative will have life-changing impacts on those impacted by domestic and family violence by helping them take their next brave step forward.”
CEO, Jayne Clowes said the combined launch of the new office and the coffee program represents a major milestone.
“This new office represents so much more than a fresh space for our team, it symbolises resilience,” Jayne said.
Jayne said staff were displaced for 11 months following severe storm damage last January.
“During time, they continued delivering critical support with extraordinary dedication despite the challenges of working across temporary locations. Being back together under one roof means we can strengthen the way we support our community,” Jayne said.
“We’re not just returning, we’re growing, innovating and offering new pathways for people rebuilding their lives.”
Carrie’s Place has supported people in the Maitland and Lower Hunter region since 1979. The organisation provides person-centred programs for people experiencing domestic violence or homelessness. It is named in honour of Caroline Chisholm, a pioneering advocate for vulnerable women and families.
The organisation invites local partners and businesses to connect with the team to explore collaboration opportunities. Those wishing to support the initiative can do so via the Carrie’s Place donation page to help ensure vulnerable women continue to access training and paid work opportunities.
IMAGE | Carries Place launches Carries Coffee to help support domestic violence survivors.
