Celebrating 20 years of compassionate care to people in need

13 Dec 2023

Growing from two services in three locations when it was launched by St John of God Health Care in 2003, St John of God Social Outreach now operates eight services across 63 locations within the homelessness, community mental health and international health sectors.

Last financial year alone, St John of God Social Outreach delivered $27.8 million of services to more than 4,000 people in need. 

St John of God Social Outreach CEO Susan Cantwell said this would not have been possible without the unwavering operational and financial support of St John of God Health Care.

“The ongoing commitment of the organisation has enabled us to take a long-term approach to developing and growing our services, which has supported continuous quality improvement that is reflected in our accreditation against health and community standards, which was first achieved in 2020,” Sue said.

St John of God Health Care CEO Bryan Pyne said the impact of the organisation’s social outreach services, could not be overstated. 

“Over the past two decades, our social outreach services have helped more than 29,000 new parents and their families begin to thrive where previously they were struggling with perinatal mental health,” Bryan said. 

“We’ve supported over 27,000 people to improve their mental wellbeing and our alcohol and other drugs services have empowered more than 26,000 people to address harmful alcohol and drug use. 

“We have broken the cycle of homelessness for more than 1,500 young people and 260 adults with mental health challenges.

“And we have supported improvements in patient care and outcomes and built local health care capacity in Timor-Leste through our international health programs.”

“That is more than 83,000 people for whom our services have had a direct, positive impact and that’s before you take into account the ripple effect that extends out to their families, loved ones , support networks and the wider community.”

St John of God Health Care Chief Officer Mission Integration Tara Peters hopes all St John of God Health Care caregivers feel a strong sense of pride in working for an organisation that truly walks the talk when it comes to living its mission and vision.

“Our vision is to be recognised for care that provides healing, hope and a greater sense of dignity, especially to those most in need,” Tara said.

“Social outreach services are a clear and visible example of this vision being brought to life.

They are an echo of the Good Samaritan, a contemporary reflection of the work of our founders and a tangible expression of hope for the people they support.”

We’re proud of the impact we’ve made over the last two decades - view our infographic: