The Womens Shelter Armidale began in 1975 when two local women, Judy and Betty, saw women and children in danger and decided that doing nothing was not an option.

From a sheep paddock, with borrowed cars, blankets, courage, and community grit, they helped women and children escape violence at a time when crisis accommodation was barely recognised. Women were moved quietly, often at night, because safety had to come before everything else.

That is our beginning. Not a boardroom. Not a glossy strategy. A community response to women and children who needed somewhere safe to go.

Fifty years later, The Womens Shelter Armidale continues that work. We provide core and cluster accommodation, crisis accommodation, transition accommodation, safety planning, casework, advocacy, and practical support for women, children, and young people escaping domestic and family violence, homelessness, and housing insecurity.

We also know that safety is not only a bed for the night. Survivors often arrive with injuries, trauma, children needing support, empty cupboards, no transport, no money, and nowhere to start again. That is why our work has grown beyond accommodation.

Our transitional health clinic connects women and children with healthcare at the point they need it most. Our drop-in centre provides a safe and practical place for support, connection, referrals, and advocacy. Our community food insecurity project provides meals and food relief for women, children, families, and community members experiencing hardship across our region.

The Womens Shelter Armidale is still here because crisis does not end when someone gets through the door. Safety means food, health care, housing pathways, advocacy, dignity, and people who will not look away.

Your support helps us continue the legacy of Judy and Betty. It helps us provide accommodation, meals, health access, practical support, and community care for women, children, young people, and families moving from crisis toward safety, stability, and independence.