With a celebration rich in storytelling, Marymead CatholicCare on 5 June 2025 marked five years of compassion and courage supporting women and children to rebuild their lives after experiencing homelessness.

An event honoured the journey of MacKillop House in north Canberra and its impact since opening its doors during the first winter of the coronavirus pandemic in June 2020.

Marymead CatholicCare CEO Anne Kirwan said the vulnerabilities of women and children experiencing homelessness became even more pronounced as the world locked down during the pandemic.

“We took a bold leap of faith at the time without secured funding, and now five years later, we are so grateful for our many supporters and donors, including the ACT Government,” Ms Kirwan said.

“We purchased this property from the Sisters of Saint Joseph of the Sacred Heart and we thank them for their trust, that we would continue the legacy of their founder, St Mary MacKillop.”

Coming together to celebrate the 5 years were Archbishop of Canberra and Goulburn Christopher Prowse, ACT Housing Minister Yvette Berry, Selina Walker, Chair of Yerrabi Yurwang Child and Family Aboriginal Corporation, former owners the Sisters of Saint Joseph and numerous community supporters.

During its first five years, MacKillop House has supported 198 women in total, including a total of 41 women with 61 accompanying children.

Ms Kirwan said there was still much to do, noting more than 3000 people are on the waiting list for accommodation in the ACT.

“The demand for safe, trauma-informed crisis accommodation continues to grow,” Ms Kirwan said.

“Government cannot do it alone, and the community sector cannot do it without government support and partnerships. As we reflect on five years of impact, we also recommit ourselves to the years ahead.”

Marymead CatholicCare is fundraising for MacKillop House through its current Tax Appeal. For more information go to https://mccg.org.au/news/2025-tax-appeal-donate-today/.