Hunter charity, Dress for Success is destined for even more success in 2024, securing a new home thanks to a $124,300 partnership with the Greater Charitable Foundation.
Dress for Success officially opened their new Broadmeadow boutique earlier this month, providing free high-quality career support and styling service for women who are entering or re-entering the workforce. Their clients include refugees, survivors of domestic violence and other vulnerable cohorts.
Beginning as a pop-up in the Newcastle CBD in 2019, the Newcastle-Hunter branch has faced the COVID disruption and relocations to King Street, Charlestown and Broadmeadow during its hunt for a suitable home, all while assisting approximately 300 women each year.
Officially opened on Thursday 1 February and just a few doors up from their previous premise, the new site provides a larger and more client-focused floorspace to meet a growing demand.
Dress for Success NSW & ACT Chair of the Board, Amanda Webb, said despite only being a few weeks into their tenancy it was clear the difference the larger showroom was making.
“When our clients arrive, they are often self-conscious and a little unsure,” Amanda said.
“Walking through the doors into our beautifully designed and spacious new boutique is not only a special experience; it’s so calming and welcoming.
“We are delighted to have the extra space in our new Broadmeadow boutique, allowing us to style and support more clients and increase volunteer opportunities.
“This is such a positive space for both our clients and volunteers, and we wouldn’t be in here without the Greater Charitable Foundation, so we’re very thankful for this partnership.”
Greater Charitable Foundation Chief Executive Officer, Anne Long said that shared values between the two organisations make Dress for Success NSW & ACT’s mission easy to support.
“In 2018 the Greater Charitable Foundation provided funding for a feasibility study into operating the service in the Hunter region, then assisted further in 2022 to help Dress for Success NSW & ACT keep their local doors open, so we’re thrilled to be able to help again,” Anne said.
“We love to see people feel empowered to be the best person they can be, so services that help them overcome barriers on that journey are invaluable.
“It’s so heartening to hear the wonderful stories of women who have achieved their goals thanks to Dress for Success, and we can’t wait to see even more receive this important support.”
The new boutique can be found at 82-84 Belford Street, Broadmeadow.
IMAGE | Newcastle-Hunter Operations Manager, Carolyn Ellis and Greater Charitable Foundation CEO, Anne Long at the opening of Dress For Success’ newest boutique.
