Building a stronger community together.

We've jumped feet first into the year, continuing to grow, evolve, and create lasting change—thanks to your unwavering support.

Every initiative, every meal, every safe space we create is made possible because of your generosity. Your support helps us continue to walk alongside those doing it tough—offering dignity, hope, and the chance to start again.

Here’s a look at what’s been happening across Cana over the past few months.

Creating safe places

Cabrini House: We welcomed an asylum-seeking family into this new home in Darlinghurst, providing secure, community-focused temporary accommodation while their protection claim is assessed.

St Francis House: Now offering accommodation for rough sleepers over four consecutive nights a week—Tuesday to Friday. A heartfelt thanks to the Cardoner Network and Bellermine House for managing the Tuesday night roster, and to the young people who are ensuring the smooth running of this vital communal space.
We’re currently seeking volunteers to help us extend this support to Monday nights. If you've been considering getting involved, now is the perfect time – click here to learn more about what’s involved, as well as some feedback from existing volunteers on their experience.

Rachel’s Joy: Our newest home, located in Fremantle, is now fully furnished and has welcomed its first occupant. Designed to offer transitional support for women, this home has come to life thanks to the generosity of a number of our community supporters and volunteers.

Establishing our new farm

The process of moving from Orchard Hills and establishing our new farm near Richmond in the Hawkesbury is nearly finished. We’ve set up veggie growing areas, irrigation systems, a greenhouse, and a machinery shed, while also establishing safe spaces for our chooks and horses—as well as a few other four-legged friends.

As we pack up Orchard Hills, we’re making sure nothing goes to waste—recycling timber, roofing, and many other materials for reuse at Grose Vale. A huge thank you to all who have leapt into action to make this happen—from our farm team, volunteers, and trusted tradespeople, to our long-time friend Ted Byers, whose dedication, guidance and coordination have been pivotal in helping us get established.

We really look forward to inviting you all to visit us at this new location to see and learn more about what we have planned for this exciting new phase.-

A reflection on how we relate to others

Visitors to our St Francis House in Redfern may notice a print hanging in its dining room Rembrandt's The Return of the Prodigal Son. A recent conversation between a volunteer and a house guest, opened up by this artwork, offered a powerful reflection on belonging and forgiveness. It was clear he understood what it meant to be given a second chance. We invite you to read more here.