Advertising feature
Redlands Coast is in desperate need of increased funding for frontline crisis response workers to deal with the daily influx of people trying to escape domestic and family violence.
Around 5000 people need help to escape violent and abusive relationships each year in the city.
"It shows just how much of a Godsend local support such as the annual Diner en Rouge fundraiser for domestic violence services is to so many locals whose lives have been shattered by violence," said Redland City Mayor Karen Williams. "As a community we just cannot wait for governments to step in - we have to stand up ourselves and be part of the solution."
Diner en Rouge will be held at a secret location on Saturday, May 18 and almost $260,000 has been so far raised to assist those homeless through no fault of their own, as well as expand the work of the Maybanke Accommodation and Crisis Support Service.
"But the truth is, that is just a drop in the ocean to what's needed to ensure we can provide the support that is so desperately needed," Cr Williams said.
That need is put sharply into focus by demand for the Centre for Women and Co's local services.
CEO Stacey Ross said that, on average, her organisation dealt with 10 referrals a day from various services.
"We have a lack of frontline crisis response workers and men's program funding, with the equivalent of just 1.2 full-time crisis response workers to support those coming to our service here in Redlands Coast. It is simply not enough," said Ms Ross.
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Ms Ross said there was exceptional community support for the cause within Redlands Coast, with Diner en Rouge a leading example.
One of Australia's most powerful speakers on the tragedy of family and domestic violence, award-winning author Rebecca Poulson, will be the keynote speaker at the fundraiser.
"Rebecca is a real inspiration to those affected by domestic and family violence and anyone who is committed to stopping it needs to hear about her extraordinary experiences," Cr Williams said.
Tickets to the banquet, which has a red and white theme, are available from the Redland Performing Arts Centre box office at www.rpac.com.au, ph 3829 8131. Check redland.qld.gov.au/dinerenrouge for updates.
Diner en Rouge raffle tickets are on sale at just $10 with two major prizes to be won.
Jewellery Set: 9ct yellow gold London blue topaz and diamond pendant with a 9ct yellow gold trace chain and matching pair of London blue topaz and diamond earrings. Courtesy of Stephen Dibb Jewellery
Island Getaway Package: Island Getaway package to North Stradbroke Island including two nights accommodation in a three bedroom ocean front apartment and return vehicle transfer. Courtesy of Whale Watch Ocean Beach Resort and Stradbroke Ferries.
Raffle drawn Saturday, May 18. Prizes will be individually drawn. Winners do not need to be present.
Purchase raffle tickets from the Redland Performing Arts Centre Box Office, Redland City Council Customer Service Centres at Cleveland, Capalaba and Victoria Point or by phone 3829 8131.
