On Thursday 23 May 2019, the Second Chance Committee were fortunate to hear from the Coordinator of Bahloo, Ms Sandra Angus. Bahloo Women’s Youth Shelter (Bahloo), a not-for-profit charity, was established in 1991 and supports young women aged between 16 and 25 years of age, with a focus on assisting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people experiencing homelessness.
Ms Angus, whose background is in health and social work, has been involved with Bahloo for more than 30 years. During her visit, Ms Angus spoke about Bahloo and its purpose, which is to help people get back on track by providing short-term crisis care. Many of the girls currently at the shelter are schoolgirls, and Ms Angus shared some of their heart-warming stories of overcoming hardship.
Bahloo helps people find jobs, access social and health services, organise medical appointments and also provides counselling services to those in need. Funded by the Department of Housing and Public Services, Bahloo also receives donations from other organisations such as Girls Grammar’s Second Chance Service Club.
During a ‘Question and Answer’ session, Ms Angus shared her story and explained how her work is satisfying rather than rewarding, as she feels her purpose is not to receive an award. We thank Ms Angus for taking the time to visit the School and we look forward to supporting Bahloo again this year.
Eva Seet (11B)
