(Community Recognition Statement, 17 September 2019, Legislative Assembly, NSW Parliament)

On behalf of the Sydney Electorate, I wish to put on record 20 years of community effort helping vulnerable women at Lou’s Place women's refuge. Lou's Place provides a safe place, with no judgement and a special warmth and non-institutional approach, including home cooked meals, empathic case management and enjoyable activities that build community, skills and self-confidence. Four friends got together 20 years ago to help other women who had not been as fortunate as them; many others have come on board along the way. Over 20 years, volunteers have cooked and served over 127,000 lunches, led over 10,000 activities and raised money from community events, like the annual Lou's Closet clothing sale. Case managers have worked with nearly 69,000 women in need. I am proud to represent this electorate where such wonderful community spirit and care flourishes. I share the hope that Lou's Place will continue to make a real difference to women in crisis for many more years.