New Beginnings

 

April 11th 2024.

Welcome to Deseert Road's first post.... lets start at the begining!

 

Welcome to our first blog for Desert Road. I’m Mel Wells, and Today, I will talk about the inspiring story of how Desert Road came into existence. This organisation results from a vision I was given during my time in prison in 2018/19.

I noticed a recurring pattern among the women inmates during my time there. Many of them would leave the prison but soon find themselves back inside. This realisation disturbed me, and I started to question why this was happening. After speaking with some women, I discovered that a lack of support after their release was one of the main reasons. It deeply saddened me to see these women returning to their old ways, often influenced by people who were not the best role models or breaking the law to escape some sort of DV. This made me think about what I could do to help support them in need to break this cycle. The day I left prison, I felt God put this strong hold over me, telling me that my time with the Prison was not over, and as much as that scared me because I was not going back for anything, I also realised that He had a plan for me, and that is where I first saw that I was needed to help others, but just wasn’t sure how or where to start.

Looking ahead to 2022, my mother passed away unexpectedly, and I was devastated. After taking some time off due to anxiety, I returned to church and heard a man share about a Sydney-based organisation that supports men transitioning out of prison or on bail. At that moment, I felt a strong nudge from God telling me I needed to do something similar, but for women.

In late 2022, I gathered a group of dear friends to create a committee and make our vision a reality. Despite the challenges, our team was unwavering in our goal to positively influence the lives of these women. We conducted thorough research and embarked on travels to various locations around Australia to devise a plan for launching this organisation. After months of hard work and dedication, Desert Road finally started in April 2024. The organisation's primary goal is to provide support and medium term-accommodation to women upon their release from prison. We focus on helping these women find employment, education, housing, and most importantly, a loving and supportive community. Desert Road provides support in helping these women be the best version of themselves, this also includes helping them to become self-sufficient. We are blessed to have more than 12 volunteers where women can connect with successful and positive role models who can guide and support them on their journey.

One of the things that makes Desert Road unique is that we are the only non-profit organisation in NSW that supplies housing and volunteers to support the women who have been released from prison. We value the input and feedback of the women we support, making them feel included and giving them a sense of ownership and responsibility.

This vision and determination has created a safe space where women can rebuild their lives and make positive changes. Desert Road has become more than just an organisation; it is a community and a family. And it all started with a simple idea and a strong belief in making a difference. We are very thankful to have the support from the Lismore Soup kitchen who we are a part of along with one in Christ fellowship. We look forward to having other organisations and churches support us as well.

I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have received an abundance of love and support from those around me in the past 5 years,and I'm confident that the women of Desert Road will also experience this same level of love and support, which has played a crucial role in helping me reach where I am today. 

So thankyou to those who have and continue to believe in me. 

Let's all work together to create a more supportive and inclusive society for all.

Even if it is only one person at a time… 

Many blessings,

Mel x

If you would like to know more about Desert Road or donate, please see our website for more information.