Empowering small nonprofits to take big steps in support of disadvantaged communities.
One such organisation that has greatly benefited from these grants is Saltbush, Balnarring Beach. Previously known as Presentation Family Centre, Saltbush is committed to enriching the lives of people experiencing hardship by providing a peaceful environment for rest, play, growth, and connection, be it with oneself, with others, with spirituality, or with the natural world.
Saltbush, situated only a short walk to Balnarring Beach, consists of six houses co-located on a single site. It offers respite holidays to a diverse range of individuals and families, including those recovering from violence, families seeking asylum, grandparent carer families, and families with dependent children with disabilities or long-term ill health. Many guests attest that their stay at Saltbush has rejuvenated them, providing renewed energy to cope with their challenging circumstances.
While the residences at Saltbush are simple, they are comfortable and clean, offering guests facing hardship a reprieve. For some, it may be the most luxurious space they encounter in their year. However, these houses, built in 1989, require ongoing maintenance and amenity improvements, which can be financially challenging.
Saltbush, Balnarring Beach has been fortunate to receive support from the Communities Taking Steps program on three separate occasions. These grants have enabled them to acquire new blinds and beds for all dwellings, as well as linen, washing machines, and flooring for one of the houses. Although seemingly minor, these updates have transformed the houses into brighter, cleaner, and more welcoming spaces for families and individual experiencing hardship.
“Several years ago, Saltbush developed a masterplan to guide the development of our site and houses. We consulted widely with stakeholders including with the people who use our service. From this process, we identified priority projects for upgrades. CCI Giving has been a consistent and generous partner to Saltbush, supporting us to improve houses and provide a warm and welcoming home away from home for people experiencing hardship.Rachel Connor, Saltbush CEO
“It is a genuine privilege to hear from so many small nonprofits and discover the truly remarkable work they do in supporting some of our most vulnerable cohorts. If you’re part of an organisation helping young people overcome educational disadvantage, supporting refugees and people seeking asylum, or aiding families affected by mental illness or domestic violence, then we invite you to learn more and connect for a conversation.” emphasises Jeremy Yipp, Chair of CCI Giving.
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