49. Broken Crayons Still Colour Foundation

Founder: Rach Mac
Head office: Northbridge, WA
Year founded: 2020
Employees: 6
Industry: Non-profit organisation

How Broken Crayons Still Colour Foundation started

Broken Crayons Still Colour Foundation was born out of founder Rach Mac’s personal experience surviving domestic violence. Taking control after a traumatic journey, Mac started the foundation as a way to support men, women and children escaping domestic abuse. It is the only organisation in Australia to offer emergency relocations, physically going to the victims and providing everything they need to start a new life free from violence – including essential support, furniture, baby supplies, toys, school supplies and more.

It also provides clothing, toiletries, documentation assistance, court support, advocacy, case management and has secure transitional havens. More recently, the foundation introduced men’s behavioural-change programs and educational programs for clients and the community.

Growth

Given when the foundation started – in the middle of a pandemic – Mac and her team had to overcome issues from the very beginning. Most notably, they had to source accommodation for their emergency relocations during a rental crisis. They raised funds independently and secured two properties, then called upon the community, businesses, tradies and other supporters to help renovate the buildings to meet their specific needs.

Mac says the key lesson was not to be ashamed to ask for assistance, and to maintain transparency about how funds were allocated.

Where to next

Broken Crayons Still Colour Foundation is now looking to secure a third property to accommodate male victims of domestic violence and their children, with Mac emphasising that domestic violence doesn’t discriminate.

It is also fundraising to purchase a second-hand removal truck so it can collect furniture and tend to their clients’ needs more efficiently.