SCARF Illawarra

SCARF Illawarra is a program supported by the Rotary Club of Gerringong Sunrise. SCARF helps refugees in Wollongong and the Illawarra build a sense of belonging and navigate the practical and personal challenges of starting a new life in Australia.

The program is organised by the Multicultural Communities Council of Illawarra.

The council realised that refugees often experienced trauma, significant upheaval, loss and months or years of uncertainty before arrival in Australia.

“By creating connections and generating opportunities, SCARF helps individuals and families establish a sense of belonging, experience social and economic inclusion, and access the tools for self-empowerment and independence.”

In their new home, individuals and families face the overwhelming task of rebuilding their lives from scratch in a place where everything – culture, customs, language, physical environment, social norms, education systems and economic processes – is unfamiliar.

By creating connections and generating opportunities, SCARF helps individuals and families establish a sense of belonging, experience social and economic inclusion, and access the tools for self-empowerment and independence.

The programs provide responsive, targeted settlement support in the community and are delivered by a dedicated team of more than 150 local volunteers.

Since its establishment in 2005, SCARF has embodied welcome, community, inclusivity and friendship in the Illawarra region. They have supported more than 2,100 people from refugee backgrounds.