Women’s Emergency Relief Program

Addressing the Urgent Needs of Women at Fletcher Street Cottage

Rising Need in Byron Shire

Byron Shire continues to record one of the highest rates of rough sleeping in regional NSW, with women increasingly at risk. Many are escaping domestic violence, facing financial instability or struggling to secure safe shelter. At Fletcher Street Cottage, we see this reality every day.

Since opening in 2022, Fletcher Street Cottage has become a lifeline for women in crisis — offering food, showers, laundry, counselling and connections to services. Over the past three years, the number of women seeking support has surged by 400%. Today, more than 200 visits are made each month by women in need, many experiencing homelessness as a direct result of domestic violence.

Launching the Women’s Emergency Relief Program

Recognising urgent gaps in existing services, Fletcher Street Cottage created the Women’s Emergency Relief Program. This dedicated, community-funded initiative provides rapid, flexible financial aid when women need it most, alongside Fletcher Street Cottage’s wraparound supports.

The program is managed by our Community Support Workers, who also provide emotional support, practical assistance and referrals to specialist services. Unlike traditional emergency relief funding, which often comes with strict criteria and delays, the Women’s ER Program allows us to act immediately and flexibly, preventing moments of crisis from escalating into long-term emergencies.

What Support Looks Like

The Women’s ER Program is designed to respond to each woman’s unique situation. Recent examples include:

• Transport assistance to help women escape unsafe situations and reach safety quickly
• Groceries to ensure women and children do not go hungry during a crisis
• Urgent bill payments to prevent financial collapse for women at risk of losing their housing

These practical supports are paired with ongoing care, ensuring women feel safe, guided and empowered while also being connected to long-term pathways such as housing, legal aid, health services and Fletcher Street Cottage’s Women’s Space.

Why It Matters

The Women’s ER Program is different because it’s:

• Immediate – no long waits or bureaucratic hurdles
• Flexible – funds can be allocated directly to urgent needs
• Integrated – delivered as part of Fletcher Street Cottage’s broader suite of services, including casework, housing referrals, art therapy and the Women’s Space

This holistic approach ensures that women receive not only short-term relief but also long-term, transformational support.

Powered by Community Generosity

The Women’s Emergency Relief Program exists entirely because of community generosity. Local foundations, businesses and individuals have stepped forward to fund this program, enabling Fletcher Street Cottage to deliver urgent, life-saving support.

But demand is growing, and ongoing funding is essential. Every contribution — big or small — helps us ensure that no woman is left without urgent help when she needs it most.

Together, We Create Change

At Fletcher Street Cottage, we believe no one should face crisis alone. With community support, the Women’s Emergency Relief Program is transforming lives — one woman at a time.

➡️ Learn more or contribute at www.fletcherstreetcottage.com.au

Generously funded by Country Women’s Association Bangalow