Your donation will be used to provide life-changing support to women and children in need. 

Benwerren aims to strengthen women and children in need, physically, emotionally, spiritually and practically, in turn strengthening families and society.

We provide short term, affordable accommodation, home cooked meals and family orientated programs, in a peaceful homely environment on the Little Yarra River, for women with or without children, during periods of domestic stress and/or homelessness.

We partner with welfare and Church agencies to support women in crisis.  Women have time to rest, re-energise, evaluate, reflect and share in a supportive environment. They make positive connections with people and organisations and bond with their children. With support and counselling they make informed decisions.

We provide a stable healthy environment for children to play in providing programs during the School Holidays and a Kids Play program during the term. Children develop positive memories and experiences, improve relationship strategies and gain confidence in a safe environment.

We believe prevention is better than cure and families who have come in crisis are now able to bring their children for repeat visits at an affordable cost. Families often refer to their visit as like coming home to Grandma's house.  Other guest reflections include:

"At one of the most difficult times in my life, staying at Benwerren has given me the courage to continue on, and the encouragement to feel more positive about our future."

“I’ve never felt safe before in all my life, until now.”

"Such a relaxing, memorable time was had by myself and the children.  I am feeling so much more connected to my kids and confident in my value as a mother."

Your donation will give life-changing hope to a woman in need.  Just a few days stay at Benwerren can make a difference.