by Rosaria Cusumano
photo by Luigi Bonanno
On the morning of 20 November 2024, joy and laughter filled the room as guests attended the SHOSJ Craft Group High Tea in the Auditorium of Club Five Dock RSL. Members of the Sovereign Hospitaller Order of St John of Jerusalem, Knights of Malta (SHOSJ) were grateful to receive such overwhelming support for this event as 100% of funds raised are donated to Open Support, an initiative of St Vincents Clinic.
At the heart of Open Support’s mission is the firm belief in the inherent right of every individual to live free from domestic and family abuse (DFA), and the destructive grip of loneliness. Their DFA programs and services assist women and children who are experiencing domestic abuse by providing safe crisis accommodation and specialised ongoing support.
The SHOSJ Craft Group is a not-for-profit organisation established in 2018 by Tina Bonanno-Macaluso, a member of the SHOSJ, who had been diagnosed with terminal cancer the previous year and died in 2019. Tina was driven by a desire to give back and leave the world a better place. Tina’s parents, Mariarosa and Anthony Bonanno open their home weekly, welcoming a gathering of around 25 women who come together, share their skills and work with purpose to keep this dream alive. They began by creating unique crocheted and knitted items, to donate to the fundraising gift shop at Open Support and the group’s contributions provide comfort, warmth, and a sense of hope to those who are facing difficult times. Some members also work remotely from various locations, including the Central Coast.
The group’s dedication and hard work has not only provided tangible support to those in need, but it has also fostered a strong sense of community among its members. By prioritising to use Australian-made wool, the group proudly supports local farmers. Their annual fundraising goal of minimum $25,000 aims to provide 12 months of rent for a family transitioning from the crisis centre. This support empowers mothers to pursue employment while ensuring a stable home for their children.
Additionally, the SHOSJ Craft Group also donates handmade items to Mary’s House in Penrith, another refuge for victims of domestic violence; the Centre for Wellbeing at Mater Hospital; Missionbeat; Concord Cancer Patient Care Centre, Sanfilippo Children’s Foundation and ‘Home- in-a Box’ a program of Mercy Foundation.
The SHOSJ Craft Group High Tea was a wonderful success and all who attended enjoyed a fantastic selection of savoury and sweet foods and beverages provided by Carmel Ruggeri of La Casa and Marisa Pinna and team within the Club Five Dock RSL. Karen Devins of Open Support addressed the attendees, explaining in depth the experience of some of the families who need our support. Together the members of the SHOSJ Craft Group continue Tina’s legacy.
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