As part of its community investment program, Woolacotts Consulting Engineers supports a number of organisations with donations, volunteering and fundraising.

One of these organisations is a family refuge centre in Western Sydney. Run by St Vincent De Paul, it assists families who have found themselves without a home due to the biggest cause of homelessness for women and children in Australia — domestic violence.

The centre provides child minding services for victims of domestic violence and provides children with techniques for dealing with trauma and boosting self esteem.

With the centre in desperate need of repair, Woolacotts employees volunteered to roll up their sleeves and assist.

Employees have raised more than $5,000 to build a new playground to ensure the safety of children at the centre. They’ve also rolled up their sleeves and donated their time to freshen up the building with a lick of paint.

In addition, employees organise an annual Christmas party for the children, putting on a barbeque lunch complete with lolly bags, games, face painting, clowns and a special visit from Santa Claus who brings a gift for each child.

“It’s such a rewarding experience — the smiles on the children’s faces at Christmas time and the continued gratitude is evidence that our efforts have made a difference,” said the program coordinator, Sam Cornwall.

The final phase of the project begins soon — finishing interior painting and installing a new pergola.