In 2016
, the Cabrini Asylum Seeker and Refugee Health Hub was opened, to respond to the significant unmet needs for this vulnerable population. The Hub provides free access to primary health and specialist mental health services for newly arrived refugees and people seeking asylum.
Since opening the Hub has provided treatment for more than 500 people. Staff have seen firsthand, the vulnerability of these clients and their families, with many affected by the immigration policies of the Australian government.
As part of the recent celebration of the Feast of Saint Frances Xavier Cabrini, signage on Cabrini property and vehicles was used to advocate for more compassionate treatment of refugees and asylum seekers, both in Australia and around the world.
The billboards are located outside five Cabrini premises in Melbourne, which were chosen based on their strong public frontage and the support provided by local authorities to display signage. The billboards will remain in place until the end of February 2019. It is hoped that this promotion will prompt further community support and understanding of this important cause.