Anglicare’s Emergency Relief Hub in Moruya is a haven for vulnerable community members on the South Coast. The Hub’s coordinator, Pauline Sullivan, is well known in the region as a determined force for good. Her grassroots efforts—along with her team of volunteers—to build partnerships with local businesses, organisations and government services has made the hub a reliable lifeline for families and individuals facing hardship.
While the provision of food and essentials remains the Hub’s core purpose, its impact goes far beyond those basics. The team offers compassion, understanding and connection to people who might otherwise feel isolated from the community.
“We don’t ask too many questions”, said Pauline, “we know that many of the people that come here have been through trauma, some have been through domestic violence situations, and we don’t want to make them relive that. We’re here to help, and hopefully that lets them heal.”
In addition to food relief, the Hub collaborates with Thread Together to provide clothing to those that need it—including job interview outfits, dresses and suits for school formals, and appropriate attire for individuals attending funerals. These thoughtful touches reflect the team’s commitment to restoring dignity and confidence.
For the past five years, the Hub’s work has been supported by Commonwealth government funding and the generosity of our donors. However, due to overwhelming demand across the sector, Anglicare’s Emergency Relief Hubs—including Moruya— will lose government funding from October. A change that places even greater importance on community support.
The gravity of this shift prompted a recent visit from Dr Michael Holland MP, Member for Bega. Reflecting on the challenges facing the region, Dr Holland said:
“It’s been a long problem. We really have to look at supporting grassroots things. You can’t just fix one problem in isolation. People need a collaborative approach”.
Pauline agrees wholeheartedly. “We work closely with services like NSW Mental Health, Moruya Hospital, Anglicare’s Housing teams and the Clontaf Academy at the local high school”, she said. “We work together—and that’s our strength. We’re only a phone call away.”
Dr Holland was impressed by the Hub’s holistic operation, noting:
“Anglicare’s teams do vital work—providing good, clothing, new tents, and case management through the Eurobodalla Homelessness Support Service to help people transition into more permanent housing.
I want to thank Pauline and her team for the compassionate support they provide every week, and I encourage the community to get behind their work through food donations and financial support”
We are deeply grateful for Dr Holland’s visit and his words of encouragement. As we prepare to continue this important work without government funding, we also thank our generous supporters—and ask for your continued help. Your support will be needed now more than ever.
Visit our Appeals page to learn more about our Emergency Relief Appeal or Donate Now to support our emergency relief teams.
