Nice nighties

April – June 2018

Aim

Safety, protection, stability and a chance for a better future are reasons thousands of women turn to crisis facilities every day across Australia. With a broken heart these women may have escaped abuse or homelessness (or both) and they need so much assistance in order to establish a future for themselves. Upon arrival, they are provided with a roof over their head, access to shower and a bed, but they bring nothing with them but their children and the clothes they all wear.

A bath or shower offers emotional and physical relief and a clean, dry, safe place to sleep is vital for restoration. The privilege of a change of clothes, or separate clothes in which to sleep is not one these women and children may have had. As simple as it appears, it’s more than just pyjamas; it’s something personal to put onto their body, it’s clean, soft and it’s just for them; it’s the first some children have owned anything for themselves and when it comes with trucks, dinosaurs, fairies and unicorns, it’s also exciting and rewarding.

‘Nice nighties’ is about more than just buying some nice pyjamas, its about taking a moment to be kind, to be generous, to show care and to do something good for someone else.

We aim to collect (new) nighties and pyjamas of all sizes, shapes, colours and brands. Nighties and PJ’s can be purchased from so many places all year ‘round and are often found on special in supermarkets or major department stores.

Outcome

We have collected, collated and packaged up nearly 800 pairs of women's and children's warm winter PJ's in all sizes, shapes and colours.

Nothing compares to the feeling of delivering these to Catherine House, Coolock House, Louise Place, Anglicare and @womenssafetyservicessa who will distribute these to hundreds of women and children in the weeks and months to come.