On 29 November, CommBank hosted the launch of the Thread Together Wardrobe and Capsule service, a new initiative that will install 100 wardrobes into women’s refuges across the country over the next 12 months.
Delivered by the charity Thread Together, the service will allow women and children escaping violence to access new clothing and sleepwear when they access crisis accommodation following a domestic and family violence situation. The launch of the project coincides with the global UNiTE 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign, which runs until 10 December.
“Too often we receive requests from people who have escaped domestic violence and abusive relationships with no clothing apart from the clothes on their back,” said Anthony Chesler, CEO of Thread Together.
“The Thread Together Wardrobe and Capsule service is available to women’s refuges around the country. Each wardrobe will be merchandised with a capsule of essential clothing for women and children, and will be continuously restocked by nominated fashion partners.”
Through CommBank Next Chapter, Commonwealth Bank is supporting the delivery of 50 modular wardrobes into women’s refuges and crisis accommodation centres in New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland.
“Domestic and financial abuse can have a significant and long-term impact on individuals, families and communities,” said Kylie Smith, Executive General Manager Corporate Affairs, Commonwealth Bank.
“By backing initiatives such as the Wardrobe and Capsule project, we want victim-survivors to know we are there to support them as they regain control and independence – regardless of who they bank with. We are extremely proud of our longstanding partnership with Thread Together under CommBank Next Chapter, our bank-wide commitment to provide better support to our staff, customers and communities impacted by financial abuse.”
The partnership with Thread Together is one of a variety of initiatives supported through CommBank Next Chapter. Further information about the program is available on the CommBank website.
Wardrobe and capsule service
In an emergency or if you’re not feeling safe, always call 000. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic or family violence, for confidential information, counselling and support, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732. This is a free and confidential service that isn’t part of Commonwealth Bank. If you need an interpreter or translator, you can ask for one and the counsellor will make the arrangements.
If you’re worried about behaviour, there is free and confidential support available. Call Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491 or chat online at ntv.org.au.
Banner image: Sallianne Faulkner, Bayside Women's Shelter (left), Anthony Chesler, CEO of Thread Together (centre) and Kylie Smith, Executive General Manager Corporate Affairs, Commonwealth Bank (right)
