Play a part in helping DV victims

VOLUNTEERS are being sought for a community- based organisation dedicated to supporting families torn apart through domestic violence.

RizeUp Australia is a notfor- profit organisation providing support to help families fleeing violent households.

RizeUp’s “Homes” program helps people who leave emergency accommodation by transforming their empty houses into homes.

RizeUp hub leader and Homes project co- ordinator for North Queensland Jaime Firth said people usually had a 12- week stint with emergency accommodation after fleeing domestic violence. After that they would be assisted into more permanent housing.

“After a 12- week period, they are assisted by the refuge to source accommodation, which is mostly bare and without basic necessities, so within a few days the RizeUp team transforms the bare house into a fully equipped and inviting home,” Ms Firth said.

“We do this by producing a list of items needed and then putting a shout- out on the dedicated RizeUp Facebook page and the community donates.

“A team leader co- ordinates the transformation by collecting and fitting the house out with furniture for every room – including linen, kitchenware, toiletries, curtains, locks and appliances – and makes it a home.”

RizeUp is also focused on ensuring children live free from domestic and family violence.

The organisation offers financial assistance with relocation, uniforms, schoolbooks and fees costs.

RizeUp CEO wards said their changing lives.

She said there was an incredible injustice in seeing women and families uprooted from their homes. Nicolle Edservice was

“Domestic violence should not be the shameful and embarrassing secret for victims to harbour – they need to feel safe and empowered to have the confidence to know that the community is behind them,” she said.

“Domestic violence is such a complex and sensitive issue but we have to be vocal, we have to keep our friends, family and work colleagues accountable for their actions.”

Townsville has the second worst domestic violence rate per person in Queensland, according to last year’s annual police report, eight times worse than Brisbane.

Ms Firth said RizeUp was seeking volunteers to join the cause in Townsville and the organisation was looking for passionate men and women to help.

People looking to get involved must undertake a police check.

Visit rizeup. com. au for details.