what helps women and children the most
Items for donation
Yes please
- Essential Toiletries (Unopened/New): Full-sized shampoo, conditioner, body wash, deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrushes, dental floss, and feminine hygiene products (pads, tampons, menstrual cups)
- New Underwear and Socks: One of the most needed but least donated items
- Personal Care: Hairbrushes, face wash, skin-safe lotion, hair products for all hair types (especially products for curly hair), makeup, and perfume
- Gift Cards: Vouchers for supermarkets (Coles, Woolworths), department stores (Kmart, Target), petrol stations, or mobile phone credit empower women to buy exactly what they need
Not this time
- Used Hygiene Products: Opened toiletries or cosmetics cannot be accepted due to safety
- Stained/Damaged Items: Clothes with rips, tears, or stains, or worn-out shoes
- Broken/Dirty Goods: Broken homewares, appliances, or dirty bedding
- Sharp Objects/Weapons: Knives, scissors, razors, or items that could pose a safety risk
- Medication: Pharmaceutical items, including paracetamol, ibuprofen, or opened vitamins
- Hotel or In-Flight Amenity Kits: We do not accept these and recommend donating to drop-in refuges
- Food, Clothing, Bedding, Furniture: We appreciate your generosity, but do not have the space to store these items. If you have something specific to donate, please head to Givit.org.au
Keep in mind
- Give something that you’d be happy to give to gift to a loved one
- Donation items must be brand new, still sealed and in their original packaging
- Handmade items must be brand new and not used
- If in doubt, please call us first
Stories of women whose lives were changed by your donation
“Khloe always avoided doctors, but a growing health concern led her to our clinic for a cervical screening. Nervous in the waiting room, she eventually opened up to our practitioners about her lifelong struggles with weight and being estranged from her family. Khloe also revealed she was assaulted as a child and, after not being believed by her mother, carried that pain alone for years. Our nurse listened with care and gently explained the support and services available at Luma and in the wider community.”
Medical and Mental Health Services client, 2024.
“Roshni lived in fear for years due to her husband’s abuse. When he suddenly left, she was left alone with three children, no income, and deep loneliness. Struggling with English, she was afraid to seek help. One night, faced with empty cupboards, she finally reached out to us. Gradually, she opened up and realised she wasn’t alone. Together, we made a plan for her safety and stability.”
Family and Domestic Violence client, 2023.
“Sarah spent years making herself smaller—quieting her voice, hiding her quirks, and suppressing parts of herself. Eventually, she no longer recognised her reflection. Her eating disorder’s cycle kept pulling her back, each relapse bringing fear and shame, leaving her feeling trapped and alone. Reaching out for help was terrifying, but instead of judgment, Sarah found open arms. In Luma’s Body Esteem Program, she finally felt seen and understood. With relief, she thought, “I’ve found my people.””
Body Esteem Program client, 2024.
“Emma’s birth experience was nothing like she imagined—long, overwhelming, and ending with medical intervention. Back home with her husband and newborn, Emma drifted through each day in a fog, consumed by anxiety. Before long, she found herself back in hospital for several weeks. Even when she finally returned home, hope felt fragile, and waves of anxiety continued to wash over her. Emma discovered Luma and joined a group program. As she listened to other mothers share their stories, she heard her own fears reflected. Slowly, Emma’s walls began to soften.”
Perinatal client, 2024.
