We spoke with new Executive Director of Catholic Care Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains (WSBM) Helen Emmerson about her vision for the long-standing social services charity and her hopes for its future.
‘No matter where you come from, what you look like or how you see the world, we truly care about you. Nobody is left behind.’
This is the motto of Catholic Care Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains (WSBM), and its new leader Helen Emmerson is keen to continue its work.
“This is the most incredible service. I feel really privileged,” she said.
Vision for the future
Since being appointed in April this year, Helen is developing a clear vision for the future direction of the service in the Diocese.
She draws on her many experiences as a member of Catholic Care WSBM’s advisory board over the past five years, as well as more than 20 years’ experience in community services, aged care, mental health and disability.
“This role supports me to identify the opportunities that we can seize within our local community,” she said.
New Catholic Care Western Sydney and Blue Mountains Executive Director Helen Emmerson. Image: Diocese of Parramatta
Services offered
Catholic Care WSBM provides professional care and support, through the Church, to the most vulnerable and disadvantaged members of the community; regardless of faith, religion, gender, ethnicity, age or socio-economic background.
“We are called to continue Jesus’ ministry in the community, by showing His compassion to all,” Helen said.
Programs and services offered through Catholic Care WSBM include parent education groups; family support; helping those at risk of domestic, family or sexual violence, homelessness or isolation; mental health, financial and employment support; relationship counselling and more.
“We offer many services to support the most vulnerable, disadvantaged and marginalised people to live a meaningful life with dignity, purpose and peace,” she said.
A private bedroom in one of the residences of Houses 2 Homes, an initiative of Catholic Care Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains. Image: Diocese of Parramatta
A strategic way forward
While demand for these services is limitless, Helen is set on taking a strategic approach to maximise the benefit of Catholic Care WSBM in the community.
“I’m trying to be really measured about how we deliver our services in order to really make a difference in the lives of people in our community,” she said.
Catholic Care hospital chaplain Abraham George (right) with a young patient and her mother. Image: Diocese of Parramatta
“For example, we have such a large proportion of our clients suffering from domestic, family and sexual violence, but we don’t have our own standalone domestic violence service. We’re keen to explore that.”
Helen is also reviewing available data to build a better picture of the service so she can identify trends and opportunities in order to bolster its services into the future.
“In order to further embed our services in the community, I also think there’s a real opportunity to deepen our partnerships, so we can be assured we are providing holistic services for our community,” she said.
People at the heart
Around 120 staff and volunteers implement Catholic Care WSBM’s vital support programs and services across the Diocese and they have been integral to its journey and achievements.
Helen said the service has “the most welcoming, diligent, loyal staff and volunteers”.
“They are the heart of this service,” she said.
Catholic Care WSBM’s dedicated staff and volunteers at a recent planning retreat day. Image: Mary Brazell/Diocese of Parramatta.
“These people are out on the front lines, and they go above and beyond to help individuals of various ages and backgrounds navigate through the most difficult times of their lives.”
Helen said past organisational changes in Catholic Care WSBM have highlighted the continuing strength, resilience and unity of the team.
“With so many programs and services on offer, we continue to support each other and work as one,” she said.
Catholic Care WSBM is a not-for-profit social services organisation and charity established by the Diocese of Parramatta.
Visit Catholic Care WSBM to learn more about the services offered or donate to support those in need: catholiccarewsbm.org.au
This article was originally published in the 2024 Season of Creation | Spring edition of the Catholic Outlook Magazine. You can read the digital version here or pick up a copy in your local parish.
