The sudden death of Sister Carmel Hanson RSJ earlier this year had a profound effect on the Hunter community.

And, now, her passing will leave another big hole throughout the region following The Sisters of St Joseph Lochinvar’s decision to close its House of Hospitality ministry in Broadmeadow.

For more than three decades of operation, the “safe haven” provided shelter, security and networking support to over 1,000 women, children and men.

However, following the loss of Sister Carmel on 25 January, the two single women living at the facility transitioned to alternative accommodation.

“It’s with deep sadness that we announce the closure of the House of Hospitality,” The Sisters of St Joseph Lochinvar’s acting congregational leader Sister Patricia McCarthy said.

“But, the decision arose after the recent death of the sole ministry coordinator and founder Sister Carmel Hanson.

“A qualified teacher, psychologist and lawyer, she devoted her life to living alongside, and supporting, people who found themselves homeless.

“Her kindness, vision and dedication shaped a more compassionate society and inspired countless individuals to take action in their own communities.

“She believed deeply that housing is a human right… and she worked every day to make that belief a reality.

“Her work was a true testament to the power of service and advocacy.

“Unfortunately, this unique role cannot be filled by other Sisters now.”

Sister Patricia added The Sisters of St Joseph Lochinvar and the members of the House of Hospitality community thanked everyone, from individuals to groups, for their support.

“We’ve been pleased to donate many items from the ministry, including furniture, to local charities, which work with vulnerable women and families, such as Jenny’s Place, Mum’s Cottage and We Care Connect,” she said.

“In this way, the Sisters continue to assist homeless and marginalised members of our community.

“We continue to mourn the loss of our sister, Carmel Hanson, and acknowledge that she has left a gap that will be hard to fill.”

Described as the “heart and soul of the House of Hospitality”, Sister Carmel was awarded the 2024 Newcastle Local Woman of the Year.

Since entering the convent at the age of 18, she pursued careers in teaching, psychology and law.

While working as a psychologist for the St Vincent De Paul Society, Sister Carmel noticed many men in alcohol and drug rehabilitation programs had few accommodation options, often residing in pubs.

In 1991, she established the House of Hospitality, originally in Adamstown.

It provided a safe shelter and an alcohol and drug-free home.

When it moved to Broadmeadow, it also opened its arms to other residents in need, such as women and children escaping domestic violence, asylum seekers and females who completed a detoxification program.

“I think providing a safe and affordable refuge for those often on the fringe of society is a wonderful thing,” Sister Carmel said at the time.

“The greatest achievement anyone can get out of life is to become a better person.

“I founded the House of Hospitality to help others do that in a safe and supportive space.”

For more news stories:

• Newcastle rally cry after club assault… enough is enough
• Emma’s Warriors chips in to make Sleapy’s PICU project a reality
• The statement from Lilie James’ parents is a sombre warning

Get all the latest Newcastle news, sport, real estate, entertainment, lifestyle and more delivered straight to your inbox with the Newcastle Weekly Daily Newsletter. Sign up here.