A 4 Voices van visited Gosford on March 12 as part of its 40 towns, 4,000 connections campaign, aiming to broaden the organisation’s network across Queensland and NSW.
The group aims to reduce the impact of social and digital isolation, domestic and family violence and homelessness faced by girls and women.
Founder Jo Westh said attendance in Gosford, which was the 20th town of 40 and the fourth day of the campaign, was high.
“This tour has been an eye-opener,” she said.
“We have seen all ends of the spectrum, from multi-million dollar territory to tent cities along rivers.
“We have seen a huge number of victims of domestic violence and homelessness.
“So many people on Centrelink just can’t afford rent and it’s very confronting.
“Seeing it face to face has had a huge impact on us.
“The issue of disconnection can be crippling to girls and women who can be isolated even within their own families or peer groups.
“This can result from a range of different experiences including, but not limited to, abuse, bullying, harassment, violence, lack of financial or health independence, and limited digital or English language literacy.”
Dedicated volunteers manned two buses, named Hope and Snowflake, driving in opposite directions and visiting 20 towns each between March 9 and 17.
The buses aim to connect with 4,000 people across – and beyond – the 40 towns.
They are fully self-sufficient, equipped with solar panels, a Smart TV, mobile phones, laptops, printer/ scanner/ copier, Wi-Fi, tea and coffee, snacks and a gift for each girl and woman that visits them.
“4 Voices is building a national network for girls and women who might be too embarrassed or afraid to ask for help, so that they will know they are not alone, that there is support, help, and a community who cares,” Westh said.
You can donate your time as a future 4 Voices volunteer or donate money online at 4voices.org.au