Areas of Interest
The focus areas for the Mary MacKillop Foundation, at this time, are the following:
Meeting the needs of people in rural and isolated areas
The isolation and ongoing removal of many agencies of support has left many individuals and families, particularly those of limited means, in positions of powerlessness and at times of helplessness and despondency. This area of need has been a central part of the Josephite story since its beginning.
Providing support to people with mental illness or disabilities
In our society people suffering from mental illness or having some major disability are often the most neglected. They are treated with very little human dignity and are often found among the destitute and homeless. Josephites are working with many such individuals and groups.
Working in Partnership with Aboriginal Australians
In Australia, both in isolated communities and in the cities, there are situations of great hopelessness where social problems seem insurmountable for some Aborigines. Josephites live and work in partnership with Indigenous communities in some of these situations assisting them in their movement from destitution and helplessness towards self-determination.
Responding to the needs of people coming to out Country without support
Refugees, asylum seekers and women from overseas who have been exploited in the sex trade are often in situations of great need. They are deprived of human dignity when they are most vulnerable and have limited access to any support. This reality brings many to a great sense of helplessness. Josephites would see these people as some of the most neglected at present.
Relieving the effects of physical, emotional and spiritual Distress
At times of great distress when suffering sickness, grief, loss or separation, people often need psychological, emotional and spiritual support. Josephites are present in Mary MacKillop Centres and other places to provide support and resources that can assist the individual or families plan positive ways forward from the experiences of distress. Peer support processes are also provided.
