A vital Newcastle crisis support service is facing its most critical moment in nearly a decade of operation, launching an urgent community appeal to raise $100,000 and secure its future.
Race Against Time to Find New Home
The SRU Community Hub, formerly known as Survivors R Us, has provided self-funded crisis support for nine years but now finds itself in a desperate situation. Founder Ann-Maria Martin revealed that plans to purchase their current premises collapsed unexpectedly, forcing an immediate search for alternative accommodation.
In a dramatic turn of events, a suitable location directly across the road became available and is scheduled for auction next week. Ms Martin and her team of volunteers have managed to gather enough funds for the deposit through determined efforts, but now face the enormous challenge of raising the remaining amount while coordinating a complete relocation.
Critical Services Hang in the Balance
The timing couldn't be more precarious for the organisation, which provides essential services including counselling, community pantry operations, clothing assistance, and emergency relief to vulnerable members of the Hunter community.
"We needed this money yesterday," a spokesperson for the service stated emphatically. "Every day we delay this move, we risk turning away people who have nowhere else to go. We simply cannot let that happen."
The service has become a lifeline for hundreds of local families, distributing up to 1500 kilograms of food weekly during times of financial hardship and personal crisis.
Government Funding Conditional on Secure Premises
Adding to the urgency is the conditional nature of promised government support. A substantial $2.8 million in government funding scheduled for 2026 is entirely dependent on the centre securing permanent premises of their own.
Ms Martin explained that the current crisis represents one of the most challenging periods in the organisation's history. The $100,000 fundraising target will cover securing the new location, essential setup costs, and ensure uninterrupted operation of their critical services.
"We've always been there for our community - now we're asking our community to be there for us," the spokesperson appealed. "Every dollar counts, and every contribution brings us one step closer to keeping our doors open."
The organisation is calling on the Newcastle community to support their fundraising campaign through direct donations or by contacting them immediately, as they work against the clock to maintain their vital support network for those in desperate need.
