Giving with S.O.U.L
‘There but for the grace of God go I’, a wise man once said. For me, “God” refers to the vibration of a higher energy that, I believe, runs through and guides us all if we tap into it. For him, it was a Christian deity. Still, the sentiment was the same for both of us.
The man was my boss from when I worked in a homeless shelter many moons ago. We often acknowledged the underlying truth that we’re all just a few, frightening, steps away from homelessness. It’s an uncomfortable thought. Blessedly, community organisations exist, working behind the scenes (as important and as inconspicuous as the undercurrent of the ocean), to offer a helping hand to our community members experiencing homelessness and vulnerability.
Servants of United Love (S.O.U.L Incorporated) is a dual-focussed, Rockingham-based charity providing meals and care packages to those who need them, as well as holistic support, including accommodation, to vulnerable women. Previously these were women who were pregnant and homeless, under the S.O.U.L Care and the Village Women programs. Sadly these programs had to close, along with the much-loved SOUL charity shop, which sold upcycled furniture.
‘Our heart and vision is still to provide safe and supportive places to house vulnerable and pregnant women. If you are in a position to support this vision or are able to provide us with accommodation or a house, please call us on 9558 9350.’
However a new wave of programs has arisen: Lilia Haven and Lilia Haven Furniture.
Lilia Haven is a holistic program that aids in the healing of women aged 28 and older, who are experiencing depression, anxiety, unresolved trauma, poor mental health and other life-controlling issues. The aim is to empower participants through education to ‘thrive in future relational and work environments’.
Volunteers who previously used their skills to upcycle furniture for the charity store are now channelling this love into restoring furniture for the verdant Baldivis property, which will be the site of Lilia Haven, opening in April 2022, thus creating an intentionally warm and beautiful home for the women who stay.
The S.O.U.L Soup Patrol program is still offering soup and filled-bread-rolls in six locations on Sundays.
These are:
Lake Richmond Cnr Safety Bay Rd and Lake Street – 4.50pm
Navy Memorial park—Governor Rd Reserve (opp caravan park) – 5.10pm
PCYC Skate Park – 5.30pm
Anniversary Park – 5.50pm
BP Dixon Road (near Caravan Park) – 6.10pm
Lakes Caravan Park (Old Mandurah Rd) – 6.30pm
If you’re interested in getting involved, either as a participant, a dinner guest, a volunteer or a benefactor, you can contact S.O.U.L Inc. at
1/5 Cessnock WayRockingham WA 6168
0450947751
