During winter’s coldest days yet, Anglicare’s Goulburn Housing and Homelessness team was incredibly thankful to receive a donation of over 30 pairs of quality, second-hand boots from the NSW Police Academy.
The donation comes at a time when Anglicare’s Housing and Homelessness teams are supporting more than double the number of clients for which they are funded.
“Our clients often have very little with them,” said Anglicare Director of Social and Affordable Housing, Toni Reay. “If we can help people with a pair of boots, that’s gold, especially if they’re sleeping rough and transient.”
“We operate with a ‘no wrong door’ policy, meaning we always find a way to help,” Toni said. “That’s why fundraising support and donations like this are so incredibly valuable. They help us provide what is so desperately needed.”
The boot donation has its origins many years ago when former NSW Police Academy Superintendent Allan Sicard noticed an excess of barely used boots and looked for a way to put them to good use in the community.
Former community services worker and current Goulburn Mulwaree councillor Daniel Strickland told the Goulburn Post that he and Superintendent Sicard worked together to establish the NSW Police Boot Drive.
According to the Goulburn Post, while changes in roles and Superintendent Sicard’s retirement meant the initiative no longer operates on the same scale, Daniel was pleased to be contacted by the Academy this year and helped connect them with Anglicare for distribution.
The warm, durable boots will be distributed to people in need across Anglicare’s service region.
Anglicare’s housing, homelessness and domestic violence housing services operate in Goulburn, Yass, Wagga Wagga and the Eurobodalla, supporting people as they navigate the housing crisis in regional and rural NSW.
Demand for support in Goulburn has increased significantly over the past 12 to 18 months, driven by cost-of-living pressures and a shortage of affordable housing.
In addition to providing warmth, comfort and dignity for people sleeping rough, the boots will support others experiencing financial hardship.
Toni said a good pair of boots can do more than protect someone’s feet.
“For people who simply can’t afford them, a good pair of boots can provide the confidence to apply for a job, helping break the cycle of poverty and create opportunities for lasting change.”
You can help. To donate gently used winter clothing, boots or other essential items, contact our offices on (02) 6245 7100. Or to support Anglicare’s vital services financially, visit our Donations page. Financial support helps us provide exactly what is needed, when it is needed.
