By Paul Dobbyn
PERTH’S Emeritus Archbishop Barry Hickey is expected to deliver a “blockbuster” of a speech on Saturday night, June 7, at the annual Pregnancy Crisis Incorporated fundraising dinner at the Marymac Community Centre, Annerley.
PCI president Patti Camp said, based on information received so far, Archbishop Hickey in his address would take a very strong stance on modern social issues and in support of organisations such as PCI.
“One of the archbishop’s messages will be that organisations such as ours can expect a lot of opposition,” she said. “We’ve certainly found this to be true over the years since we started.”
The dinner, which starts at 6.30pm, will also feature the talents of award-winning soprano Jessica Taylor and musical entertainment from the Warwick Adeney Strings. Barrister/advocate Brett Heath as MC will ensure a polished program.
President of the International Alliance of Catholic Knights David Huppatz will present the Michael Bell Memorial Award to PCI for its work.
Mrs Camp said the dinner would raise vital funds for the charity including the ongoing running costs of PCI House.
“PCI helps mothers who are being pressured into considering terminating their pregnancy (by being threatened and abused, and through) lack of support and outright domestic violence,” she said. “Support provided ranges from in-house visitation, to provision of items for the new-born baby and accommodation for mothers experiencing vulnerable pregnancies.
“The costs of insurance, telephone, maintenance etc are borne by the charity and there is an ongoing need for support by donations from those who wish to help these desperate women. Our donations this year are lower than previous years and continued help would be most appreciated.”
The charity also needs additional volunteer office workers and support staff at its relocated office on the southside of Brisbane.
PCI House was established following a donation of a house for removal by St Peter’s Parish, Rochedale, in 2010. The house was relocated to a site elsewhere on Brisbane’s southside.
Brisbane Archbishop Mark Coleridge, opening the house in 2012, said it was “right at the heart of what we are and do as Church”.
PCI has gone from strength to strength since Archbishop John Bathersby officially launched it in November 2008. The charity provides 24-hours-a-day service, seven days a week, 365 days a year to support women needing help.
To book tickets to the dinner contact 1300 777 777 or email pci777@bigpond.com.
