A mother and her two children are beginning anew in a home transformed into a sanctuary, thanks to the efforts of volunteers from the organization RizeUp. This family, who fled domestic violence, has moved out of a local refuge into a fully furnished house specifically designed to reflect their tastes and needs. The mother, aged 28, had expressed her love for the colors black and green and her passion for reading, which guided the volunteers in creating a welcoming environment.
In just four hours, what was once an empty house became a warm and inviting home. The children’s rooms are now filled with toys, books, and decorative pillows, catering to their individual preferences—black and pink for the seven-year-old daughter who enjoys crafts and Hello Kitty, while the five-year-old son loves black and red, Pokémon, and gaming.
For many families in similar situations, the move represents a significant escape from turmoil. Often, they leave their previous homes with only the clothes on their backs, seeking safety and stability. This house is one of approximately ten being decorated in a similar manner this week for victim-survivors across Australia.
RizeUp’s Mission to Create Safe Spaces
RizeUp has been operational for ten years, working tirelessly to furnish homes for those transitioning out of crisis situations across Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, and Western Australia. The organization collaborates with various entities to transform bare, public housing or private rentals into nurturing spaces. Each home is equipped with personalized furnishings, going well beyond basic necessities.
Nicolle Edwards, a representative of RizeUp, emphasized the importance of tailoring each setup to meet the specific wishes of the families they assist. “We place the victim-survivor at the centre of every decision, especially when children are involved,” she said. “We listen to what matters to them—their favorite colors, hobbies, and the things that make them feel seen and safe.”
RizeUp has furnished more than 3,200 homes for victim-survivors of domestic violence, with each home costing about $6,500 to furnish. The volunteers, who assemble furniture and decorate, often leave with tears in their eyes, moved by the impact of their work. Edwards noted that behind each home lies a unique story: “A mother longing for a moment of peace. A child who has seen too much.”
Voices of Experience and Advocacy
Margie, a former recipient of RizeUp’s services, reflected on her experience nearly a decade ago. After leaving a marriage marked by verbal, emotional, and physical abuse, she sought assistance with her three children. “They told me there was a charity that could help me restart, because when I left, I left with nothing,” she recounted.
Upon entering her newly furnished home, she found her children’s rooms filled with toys and a welcoming atmosphere. A handwritten sign on the dining room table read: “Welcome home!” Margie expressed her gratitude, stating, “It felt like, ‘Wow, someone actually cares and believes in me.'”
Delia Donovan, Chief Executive Officer of Domestic Violence NSW, pointed out the systemic challenges that many victim-survivors face when securing long-term housing. “Women and their children are often expected to leave crisis accommodation after just three months, yet pathways into safe, stable housing are scarce,” she stated. Donovan highlighted that social housing waitlists can exceed ten years in some areas, making immediate support crucial.
To continue their impactful work, RizeUp will hold a fundraising gala ball on August 2. Edwards described this event as a moment to reflect on their ten-year journey and the “generosity of our village.” She reiterated that every donation—regardless of size—helps sustain their efforts to provide safe and nurturing environments for families in need.
Margie now uses her experience to assist other victim-survivors as they navigate their paths to recovery. “I couldn’t have set up a new life the way I have without a helping hand,” she said. With a supportive new husband and additional children, she helps others find hope and healing. “You might feel isolated, but there are services and survivors on the other side that hear you,” she added.
The collective efforts of organizations like RizeUp, along with the compassion of volunteers, are creating lasting change in the lives of families who have faced unimaginable challenges. Each furnished home is not just a structure; it is a foundation for new beginnings and the promise of a brighter future.
