Second Chance Programme

Second Chance is an independent non-for-profit organisation with an unswerving commitment to solving female homelessness. In south-east Queensland there are 10 times the number of crisis beds for men than for women. We are working to change that. We believe that every women and child has the right to a home and to dignity and safety. We fund experts in their fields to support and assist women and their children onto the pathway to a home – for life. Second Chance is the only charity in Australia raising money exclusively for homeless women. Without the support of our donors and supporters, we could not provide these vital services. (photo: SC comittee members inspecting new apartments for women in Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley). If you would like to donate, please click HERE.

COME TO OUR NEXT EVENT…watch this space to find out more about our first event for 2014.

“It is like I’ve been given another go at life,’’ says Sarah, who spiralled into homelessness in Brisbane after the death of her husband and subsequent depression.

We recently met several older women who, after years of couch surfing, sleeping rough on Brisbane’s streets or in unsafe boarding houses, found a home in a unit at the Brisbane Housing Co’s Bonney Lane development in the Fortitude Valley. This is where Second Chance’s highly successful Bridge-the-Gap rental subsidy is helping house more women, as Queensland’s rental market grows more unaffordable. We also provide brand-new furniture packages.  Sometimes it is the first time these women have owned anything new. “”I cried when I was told I’d be given that,’’ says Sarah.

 2013 Feedback from Jacque Taka, co-ordinator of Chisholm Inc, Brisbane
“The funding from Second Chance to our emergency shelter has made an EXTRAORDINARY difference to women and children who arrive here, fleeing family violence. It means we can help so many more women, especially those who fall into the ‘’non-income’’ category and often slip through the cracks in Australia.’’

 2013 Quentin Bryce, Governor-General of Australia.
“Second Chance is an inspiring example of women coming together to care for others who are in desperate need .Can you imagine being homeless – nowhere to go to put your head down, to feel safe, to be inside? This hard-working  community organisation gives practical support with a compassion, generous spirit , and determination to make a difference. It gives all of us a way to show that we care too and that we want to DO something to make a difference for women in the toughest times in their lives.’’.