b'Stitching hope for Wodongas rough sleepers. Led by Unitings team in Wodonga, the Ruffy projectis a new initiative which makes swags locally to distribute to those sleeping rough. The idea for this project sprang from theCarevan, an organisation based in Albury, who critical need of warmth and bedding for provides warm meals to those experiencing those experiencing homelessness within homelessness, will help to distribute the swagsthe Goulburn Northeast region.to those in need while sourcing further funding. Looking for community partnerships to be ableWe want to make change and help those who to make backpacks and swags is not solvingare sleeping rough, and empower the participants our homelessness problem, but it gives peopleat the correctional centre in a well-meaning dignity that they can have a portable bed onprogram, says Catherine. their back and have something warm to sleepThe Ruffy Swag project will assist people who in every night, says Unitings Emergency Relieffind themselves homeless in Victoria and New Coordinator in Wodonga, Catherine.South Wales.The St Leonards Uniting Church BrightonPictured: Unitings Emergency Relief Coordinator in Wodonga, congregation has been a key reason the programCatherine, with Ruffy swag (top). Ruffy swag assembled (bottom).has been able to get off the ground. The project has been challenging at times but luckily this wonderful seed funding has come from St Leonards Uniting Church through their Coffee Cup Challenge proceeds, she says. The Beechworth Uniting Church has also generously contributed to the program. Its amazing these funds can come in andhelp a region with their homelessness problem, says Catherine. The Beechworth Correctional Centre is proudly partnering with Uniting to create the swags by expanding its industrial sewing program. Supporter Newsletter Spring 2024 7'