Since its inception in 2016, and thanks to financial support from supporters, the Bower has been able to help 325 families and gave away goods to the value of $96,000, an average saving of $350 a family.
Salma is one of more than 200 families supported through Bower’s House to Home program.
She said: “I come from a country torn apart by civil war – Libya in Northern Africa.”
“I had been working as an accountant in Tripoli when war broke out. I escaped with my six-year-old girl, Nada. My father and uncle and five other relatives lost their lives.
“After years in a refugee camp and detention, my little girl and I were finally allowed into Australian on a temporary protection visa.
“We had no money, nowhere to live, I had no job, but we had wonderful help from volunteer services. I was assisted to find a one-bedroom flat for Nada and me. But I had no furniture, not even a mattress on the floor.
“Bower’s House to Home program was a godsend. They gave me a bed, sofa, a wardrobe, a fridge and some basic kitchen items like a kettle, a microwave and a bike; we are safe and it now feels like home.”
A Bower spokesperson said: “Please help us continue this vital program and help many more in these challenging times.”
Make a tax deductible donation at givenow.com.au/thebower.
Bower helping to rehome crisis survivors
HELPING refugees and domestic violence survivors set up a new home, Bower Marrickville’s ‘From House to Home’ program facilitates the re-homing of household goods, furniture and appliances.