Stewart House, which provides life-changing programs for up to 1600 disadvantaged children from NSW public schools each year. These children, often facing challenging circumstances, find hope, healing, and a brighter future at Stewart House.   

About Stewart House

Situated on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, Stewart House assists children in need from NSW and the ACT. Established in 1931 by staff of the NSW Department of Education to address malnutrition and disease, Stewart House provides remedial and preventative care. Children arrive throughout the school term for an 11-night stay.

At Stewart House, they receive comprehensive health screenings and treatments for their eyes, ears, and teeth. Beyond physical health, the program emphasises developing emotional regulation as well as essential life skills, including self-care, conflict resolution, and social interaction.

This transformative experience is provided free of charge, relying entirely on charitable donations. Only 5 per cent of operating costs are government-funded, and its annual operating costs are just over $5 million with a projected shortfall of around $1 million this year. Your support through the Education Department’s whole-of-government workplace giving program can ensure Stewart House continues to offer these vital services to disadvantaged children.

The Impact of Your Support: Peter’s Story

The profound impact of Stewart House is best illustrated through the stories of those who have experienced its care and support. Take, for instance, Peter’s journey:

“I was apprehensive. Coming from a household where I experienced uncontrolled outbursts of anger and beatings, I arrived with trepidation at Stewart House to be greeted by students of various ages from all over NSW. At first, it was very difficult for me, but with the help of the staff and volunteers, I settled in and made new friends.

“The lady who taught art was very nice and liked the things I made. She was instrumental in engaging me with art, and it became a passion for me after the visit. I went on to do painting and drawing and eventually became a painter and sign writer.

“My parents never came to collect me. Eventually, my sister and her husband collected me a week later. Returning home was not good, but I always held on to that time away; it made me see that life beyond my home situation was possible, and it made me realise that I was not the problem, and that things would get better as I got older. It gave me purpose.”

Peter’s story is just one example of how Stewart House can be a beacon of hope and a catalyst for positive change. For many children, the support and care they receive at Stewart House give them the strength and confidence to envision a brighter future.

How You Can Help

Supporting Stewart House is straightforward and helps children straight away.

Members can make regular, pre-tax donations directly from their salary by participating in workplace giving. A contribution of $7 per fortnight, over one year, funds one day of a child’s 11-night stay at Stewart House.

Take Action Today

By contributing through workplace giving, PSA CPSU NSW members can be a part of this vital work, helping to provide life-changing programs and support for children in need.

Staff currently employed by the NSW Department of Education can join the Department’s Stewart House Salary Contribution Scheme by completing an online form at www.stewarthouse.org.au/salary-contribution

All other public sector staff can contact their payroll department about workplace giving for Stewart House. .

Go to www.stewarthouse.org.au to learn more.