The Estia Foundation was officially established in 1994 under the guidance and blessing of Archbishop Stylianos and the Greek Orthodox Church of Australia.
They are a non-profit organisation that relies on donations and State Government funding to provide its valuable services to the community.
Staff and volunteers of Estia are dedicated to helping young adults who have an intellectual and/or physical disability reach their full potential, and enable them to participate in everyday activities that they would otherwise not have been able to do.
“It is indeed especially moving that the very difficult and complex task of Estia is morally and materially supported not only by the families of children with special needs, but also by the most diverse groups of our fellow human beings,” says Archbishop Stylianos.
Both Estia’s respite facilities in Gladesville and Roselands have essential equipment to provide the most comfortable and safe surrounds for clients.
They also offer support services at Lixouri House, which is Estia’s first permanent accommodation facility located in the North Ryde area of Sydney.
The sacred work of Estia honours the timeless ideal that defines Greek culture- Philotimo- as they welcome those in greatest need into their Estia homes and offer friendship, warmth and substance.
“At Estia we embrace the children of our community and give the love, the help and the respect they deserve,” says Father Angelo Aliferakis, who is responsible for all of Estia’s operations and services.
Last Friday night, Estia had its annual Ball, which raised over $350,000 alone on auctions, silent auctions, raffles and donations on the evening.
There were over 800 guests present, which took place at Le Montage in Lilyfield. MC was finance editor and channel nine commentator Effie Zahos, along with Australia’s other much loved Effie Stephanides (comedian Mary Coustas). Greek singer Kelly Kelekidou also performed live on the evening and guests were entertained by a live band.
With these continued generous contributions of Estia’s many supporters, the Foundation is now working towards opening their Blakehurst Home- where they hope to establish new day programs, respite facilities, and group homes on a waterfront land, which was awarded to Estia by the Supreme Court- after having won a tender that complied with the wishes of generous benefactor, Caroline Milne Williams.
“Our ambitious plans for the new Blakehurst development will provide so much relief, respite, breathing space to those families in most need.
“We are grateful for every contribution that was gifted at the Estia Foundation Ball and to all those who support us,” says Father Angelo.
* Donations can be made to Estia by phoning their office on (02) 98798000. They accept credit card payments. Alternatively ,cheques can be forwarded to the Estia Foundation of Australia PO Box 17 Gladesville NSW 2111. All donations exceeding $2 are tax deductible.
