Seeds of Affinity

One of last year's Impact100 SA Grant Winners

Having a sense of belonging and being part of a community has so many benefits for all people. For women coming out of prison, sometimes finding a place to fit in can be difficult.

Seeds of Affinity is a non profit, volunteer-run community group, established by and

for women who have been formerly incarcerated.

They meet twice a week to check in with each other, cook and eat a meal together, access support services and learn new skills through making and selling skin care products, designing and screen-printing tea towels and tote bags for

fundraising. The funds raised go towards running programs in the Adelaide Women’s Prison and providing support to the women once they’re released.

Most importantly, women at Seeds of Affinity feel a sense of belonging, solidarity and self-worth during the difficult transition between prison and the community.

Alison’s story is just one of many amazing women involved with Seeds of Affinity and they welcome all formerly incarcerated women to attend on any Tuesday or Friday between 11 and 3.

“I was pushed out of prison into an unfamiliar area, without any personal possessions, no family support and absolutely no confidence to transition back in to the community. Meanwhile, I had to maintain my sobriety which meant cutting out every long term and short term relationship I ever had. I had heard about Seeds of Affinity whist in prison and I was encouraged by other prisoners to reach out to the organisation.

I immediately felt welcome, I felt accepted, I felt safe, I felt encouraged, I felt inspired. It was an immediate sense of belonging. I was surrounded by women who could relate to the journey I was on. Attending Seeds has given me a purpose, something positive to look forward to every week, inspiring me to be the best version of myself”

- Alison, 35 y.o.

There are many ways to support Seeds of Affinity:

• Donations of toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, body wash and moisturiser.

• Presentations at local community events

• Follow on Facebook, Seeds of Affinity Pathways for Women or Visit their website, seedsofaffinity.org

Photos provided by Seeds of Affinity