The Because We Care Boutique is the only service of its kind on the Central Coast and will hold a garage sale on July 1 to help fund its efforts.
In operation for just over four years, it is a referral-only service focused on supporting all women who have or are facing adversity and are seeking to improve their lives and build their personal resilience.
Operating at The Berkeley Centre, Glenning Valley, and run by dedicated volunteers and stylists, the Boutique offers ideas, advice and appropriate and smart attire prior to attending job interviews, first day on the job, and for any other important meetings or appointments.
It aims to instil a level of confidence, caring and connection.
But it’s not just about job interviews.
Some clients have had to flee dangerous situations or have endured ongoing hardship in their lives.
The care and attention they are given at the Boutique can, and does, create an enormous shift in their mental outlook.
Since it opened in 2018, the Boutique has created pathways for support, growth, connection and employment and assisted more than 500 women, with volunteers logging up more than 5,000 hours.
The Because We Care Boutique currently has one part-time employee and 12 dedicated volunteers who act as stylists, admin officers, cleaners, sewers, fundraisers and event staff.
It is surrounded by some of the region’s most disadvantaged areas, with unemployment well above the national average.
It was created by Sharyn Becker, who is also creator and co-ordinator of the Community and Business Women’s Network (CBWN), an Iris Foundation project which has been in operation for over five years.
The Because We Care Boutique is open Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8am-1pm.
The garage sale on July 1 will be held between 9am and 1pm at The Berkeley Centre in Heather Ave, Glenning Valley.
The Boutique will also hold a Christmas in July event at Ettalong Bowling Club on July 22.
For more information visit www.cbwn.org.au
Tickets for Christmas in July can be booked at http://bthe.re/christmas-in-july-charity-event-bwcbcc-2023
Terry Collins