Pop In Newsletter June 2025
As we reflect on the past financial year, I am incredibly proud of Pop In's journey and achievements. The Board recently completed a thorough strategic review, and we are working diligently to embed the practices and processes that will deliver against our ambitious goals for the coming year.
This progress is a testament to the dedication of many. My sincere thanks go to our committed Board, our tireless staff, and the invaluable members of our committees and volunteers who support us. Your collective commitment is continually inspiring.
Next month, we will provide a summary of our transformative impact, showcasing the profound difference your support has made to women and children in the Wingecarribee Shire.
Vicki Kelley, Chair and Co-Founder
Changes at Pop In: strengthening service delivery
We have recently undertaken an internal restructure following the departure of our General Manager, Sarah Mangelsdorf, and wish her well in her future endeavours, and thank her for her contribution to Pop In. This presented us an opportunity to look within our talented team to enable us to strengthen our service delivery of case work support.
We also bid farewell to our Marketing & Development Manager, Jonathan Melrose Rae, whose 18 months with Pop In were instrumental in managing our marketing, events, and a multitude of other vital operations. We wish Jonathan all the best in his exciting new venture, and we look forward to introducing his successor in our next newsletter.
With change afoot, we have appointed our exceptional Clinical Practice Manager, Finette Sheather, to a broader role. Finette's outstanding care and guidance have been instrumental in transforming countless lives. Her new responsibilities will allow Pop In to bring on additional caseworkers.
This expansion is crucial to manage the unfortunate but heavy load of the increasing number of women and children in the Southern Highlands navigating domestic violence. While it is disheartening that the numbers of those affected are increasing, please know that Pop In is here and ready to help.
Our impact: a snapshot of lives changed and who we're helping.
Over the last 12 months, Pop In supported 250+ women and children. We experience approximately 150 NEW referrals for intensive casework every year.
Where did our referrals come from?
33% Moss Vale
27% Bowral & Burradoo
14% Mittagong & surrounds
10% Northern Villages
5% Southern Villages
5% Wollondilly
3% Berrima & Surrounds
3% Robertson & surrounds
What's the main reason for enquiry at referral?
48% Our programs, including case work
15% Information / Education
Equal 7% for Legal, Accommodation, Parenting & Family, Mental Health,
6% Safety Planning
3% Financial
It's clear from these numbers that our programs and casework are at the heart of our work, accounting for nearly half of all referrals. This highlights the critical role our tailored support services play in addressing the core needs of women in our community and underscores our commitment to providing impactful, direct assistance to those who need it most.
Thank You, Dan Murphy's Mittagong!
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Dan Murphy’s Mittagong for their recent $1,000 cash donation, which will directly support our community pantry staples. Our Community Pantry provides essential pantry items, groceries, personal, and hygiene products - supplementing existing supplies for 25 to 30 women and children weekly. It is community generosity like this that is fundamental to our existence and continued ability to help those in need.
Southern Highlands Private Hospital's Amazing Support
Southern Highlands Private Hospital recently demonstrated incredible generosity with their charity drive in recognition of National Supply Chain Day. Their commitment to community and community engagement delivered a huge room full of essential personal hygiene supplies, nappies, and other personal health items. This monumental effort truly highlighted the power of an organised and compassionate supply chain in action. Their dedication to making a tangible difference in the lives of others is truly commendable and deeply appreciated by all of us.
Moss Vale Public School's Generous Winter Appeal
We're also thrilled to share the incredible generosity of the students and staff at Moss Vale Public School! Their Student Voice Team organised a fantastic Winter Appeal, collecting a wide array of essential food items. The students participated in a winter mufti day, bringing in donations ranging from pasta and sauces to canned goods, all to support those in need during the colder months. Our Community Pantry was delighted to receive these much-needed and we extend our warmest thanks to everyone at Moss Vale Public School for their wonderful community spirit!
This is Jack*. This is his story.
We tell the stories of the people that we help.
Jack* was just 20 when he first found Pop In, following a deeply traumatic event where he and his mother were violently assaulted by his stepfather. The assault, witnessed by a friend who called emergency services, left them both physically injured while trying to protect each other.
The trauma continued as Jack faced the daunting legal process, requiring a video-recorded statement for court. This period was marked by overwhelming anxiety as he awaited justice, struggling with the prospect of confronting someone who had been verbally abusive and controlling for years. His home, he described, felt like "walking on eggshells."
Donate Today
The vital work we do every day is only possible because of compassionate individuals like you. Every bit, no matter how small, makes a profound difference in the lives of women and children building futures free from violence.
Please consider donating today and become a part of our community of care.
Thank you for your generosity.