Dear Friend,

There was a time not that long ago that if you told me I would be writing this letter, I wouldn’t have believed you. 6 months ago, I really didn’t have much confidence. I hadn’t worked for several decades due to being in a domestic violence relationship.

I wanted to look for work, and after taking the time to work on myself and my children, the time was right for me to begin applying for jobs. I had secured an interview in a coffee shop and for a voluntary role within the community, and my daughter also had an upcoming interview.

Neither of us had any idea what to wear, or what to expect in an interview situation. When you have been in our situation, the person responsible has taken away your freedom and you just don’t know who you are anymore. I had really just forgotten about myself.

That’s when we both found Smart Works. From the moment we walked through the door, we were treated with such care and kindness. It is such a safe haven for women. The coaching helped me feel prepared for interviews; I went in not knowing how to answer anything, and came out feeling like, maybe I can actually do this. And the dressing was just amazing. I’d spent so long wearing black, and Smart Works helped me find colour again. And it wasn’t just me. My daughter had an interview too, and accessed the coaching and dressing service. This was a huge step for her as she hadn’t been feeling herself in such a long time. She absolutely loved her clothes and I am so proud to tell you she got the job, and she’s doing well. I got both jobs too, and I’m now volunteering within the community and working towards becoming a support worker myself. I have even started a women’s group to support other women in my position which is going from strength to strength.

Smart Works gave us more than clothes. They gave us confidence and hope for a better future. We’re still in the refuge for now, but for the first time in a long time, we’re dreaming of having a place to call our own.That’s why I’m writing. There are so many more women like me out there waiting to be welcomed to Smart Works and for that same opportunity to dream about a better tomorrow. A new Smart Works Centre means even more women can walk through that door and start to transform their lives, just like we did.

If you’re thinking about donating to support this move, please do. You’re not just helping women get dressed for interviews, you’re helping them find their strength, confidence and colour again. And that is just life-changing.

All my best,
‍
Rebecca