Catherine House Timeline

Catherine House Timeline

Catherine House: Through The Years

1988

Catherine House opens.

Founded by the Sisters of Mercy, Catherine House opened its doors on September 12th for the first time as emergency accommodation for up to 12 women.

1992

Catherine House expands as demand for services rises.

The second purpose-built house was opened.

1998

10 year anniversary, support from the former Governor of South Australia

Dame Roma Mitchell was named the official Patron. During the first 10 years, Catherine House supported over 3000 women.

2001

Madge McGuire begins as Director.

Madge McGuire took on the inaugural role of Director, Sister Anne Gregory began plans to retire.

2002

The Catherine House Trust was established.

This Trust went on to raise vital funds for more than 15 years.

2003

New mental health program added.

The Recovery Program was established, offering specialised mental health services for women experiencing homelessness.

2004

Madge McGuire tackles Everest.

Madge McGuire climbed Mt Everest, raising $300,000 from her fundraising appeal.

2006

Women’s Centre opens.

Using the proceeds from the Mt Everest fundraiser, Sagarmatha was opened (now called the Women’s Centre).

2007

Bright Spirit Rose Fundraiser

“Bright Spirit”, the first Catherine House Rose was created.

2009

Permanent Accommodation provides long-term support.

The Permanent Supported Accommodation Program (PSAP) opened.

2011

Scholarship founded for women staying at Catherine House.

The Kym Adey Scholarship was founded, enabling 6 clients to date to study at UniSA.

2013

Catherine House recieves national recognition for services.

Received the National Homelessness Services Award for Excellence in Supporting Pathways to Employment or Education.

2014

New Patron

Lan Le becomes Catherine House’s new Patron.

2016

Visit from Sir Peter Cosgrove.

Catherine House receives a visit from Govenor General.

2018

Additional beds added

Four new rooms were added to our Crisis Accommodation Services, increasing our capacity to support South Australian women.

2021

Merge with Housing Choices Australia

Reallocation of homelessness funding. Catherine House merged with Housing Choices Australia.

2023

35 year anniverary

Catherine House celebrates 35 years of supporting women experiencing homelessness.