Homeless shelter founder overwhelmed and grateful for hand up

Sheltered By Grace Large

The founder of Sheltered by Grace, a homeless shelter in Waterford, Logan City was overwhelmed when he received a phone call to say that they were to receive a hand up, to help those experiencing homelessness to get back on their feet.

The shelter recently received a $2,000 donation from the wife of the Grand Master of the United Grand Lodge of Queensland, Waveny Holland, with the support of Hand Heart Pocket the Charity of Freemasons Queensland. A range of essential supplies including toiletries, socks and underwear were also donated.

The funds and essentials were collected at the Grand Master’s wife’s inaugural quarterly fundraiser, which for the first time was open to friends, relatives and the general public.

“I’m so thrilled that we’ve been able to help Sheltered by Grace. This will enable them to help some of the most vulnerable in the community to make a fresh start,” Waveny said.

“I was drawn to the name initially and then looked into the support they provide and how they operate,” she said.

Established in 2010, by Jason and Lisa Loakes, the shelter offers supported accommodation, meals and medical assistance as well as a range of support services to help people to turn their lives around.

Hand Heart Pocket Chief Executive Officer Gary Mark said by matching the Grand Master’s wife’s fundraising, the impact has been doubled.

“We were able to support this worthy cause because helping people to rebuild their lives aligns with our values of alleviating suffering or misfortune and empowering people to lead better lives,” Gary said.

“We acknowledge the work of the Grand Master’s wife to raise these crucial funds and for bringing this organisation to our attention,” he said.

Photo: The wife of the Grand Master of the United Grand Lodge of Queensland, Waveny Holland handed over the donation to Sheltered by Grace founder Jason Loakes (far right). 

Find out more about who we are

Subscribe

Receive all of the latest news & publications

Share This

Select your desired option below to share a direct link to this page