Emergency relief program launches on International Women’s Day

FLETCHER Street Cottage will officially launch its Women’s Emergency Relief Program on International Women’s Day, March 8.

The community-funded program provides immediate support to women experiencing domestic violence, housing insecurity and financial hardship – a growing and ongoing crisis in the Byron Shire and Northern Rivers region.

Key highlights include immediate transport to safer locations for women escaping dangerous situations and food vouchers for women and children facing hunger. Emergency financial assistance for urgent expenses is available, and support is provided discreetly and rapidly, ensuring safety and dignity.

Assistant Manager and Community Support Worker Maddi Powell said the number of women seeking help is increasing dramatically, and it was clear that more must be done.

“Many of these women are fleeing abusive situations. In those moments, they need urgent assistance, and that’s exactly what the Women’s Emergency Relief Program allows us to provide – critical support, immediately,” Powell said.

“This isn’t just about providing shelter or food vouchers. It’s about giving women their dignity back. It’s about offering them safety, stability and a pathway to rebuild their lives.”

The new program aims to provide immediate, practical support to address the rising demand. Over the past six months, the service has observed a significant rise in women escaping domestic violence and housing insecurity, many with complex mental health needs. Many women affected are part of the hidden homeless in the Byron Shire, sleeping in cars, tents or couch surfing.

From 2022 to 2025, Fletcher Street Cottage has supported over 3,500 vulnerable women. In 2025, over 400 women have accessed the service, representing a spike of approximately 145 per cent.

Community donations fund the program, and one of the first major contributors was the Bangalow Country Women’s Association (CWA), which committed $10,000. In addition, the group has increased its monthly contribution by $500 per month.

President of the Bangalow CWA Ruth Kirby said the branch members believed in backing the work of local community organisations.

“Particularly those seeking to overcome the impact of homelessness and domestic and family violence among women,” Kirby said.

“We were very pleased to learn that Fletcher Street Cottage has been targeting services for women and that the Women’s Emergency Relief Fund will further this work.”

For information and to donate, visit byroncentre.com.au/programs/womens-emergency-relief-program