Bundaberg push for Australia’s first men’s refuge

A group of Bundaberg residents have launched a new charity to help men and their children who are escaping domestic violence.

Jeremiah House will be the first of its kind in Australia, aimed at providing support and refuge to fathers and their children who are fleeing emergency family domestic violence crisis situations.

The news was released the same day a Brisbane woman who stabbed her husband to death because she was “angry and annoyed” that he got home late from work, has been sentenced to nine years in prison for manslaughter.

Founder of Jeremiah House Peter Symes said Jeremiah House only exists on paper at this stage.

“We are looking for a major sponsor so we can open our doors,” he said.

Jeremiah house is also looking for fellow volunteers who are interested in helping out.

Co-founder Robert Stoker said Jeremiah House would provide short-term emergency accommodation, supply nightly meals, clothing, counselling, financial budgeting advice and much more.

“We will help clients with their day-to-day life skills, preparing and cooking meals, house cleaning, parenting skills, and accessing local community specialists,” he said.

Jeremiah House officially launched as a charity in 2018 and they’re now after the community support.

“Our head office will be in Bundaberg Queensland but our vision is to be Australia-wide within the next 10 years,” Mr Symes said.

The main objective for Jeremiah House is to provide an emergency men’s refuge centre with support for fathers experiencing family domestic violence. The same as a women refuge in Australia.

“Jeremiah House is most needed in our communities of Australia,” Mr Stoker said.

“Sponsors and donations are the key to unlocking the doors for Jeremiah House to becoming a reality.”

The charity refuge is asking for donations to help them get the charity up and running.

To connect with Jeremiah House visit their Facebook page.

• Originally published on Medianet.