Opening its doors to clients in August 1991, Stanford House was an initiative of a Catholic order of sisters, the Daughters of Charity, with the indomitable Sister Sinead Clonan dc at the helm as the first Coordinator. In early 1992, the Daughters handed over the operation of Stanford House to a community-based organisation that became an incorporated association on 2 July 1992, called Stanford House Incorporated. Sister Sinead remained Coordinator at the House for several years until her death from cancer in 1994.

Since March 2005, the staff at the House comprises two permanent part-time Joint Coordinators, one permanent part-time Relief Worker and two casual Relief Workers. The Management Committee of Stanford House Inc. comprises a Chairperson, Secretary, Treasurer, Public Officer, Four Ordinary Members and a Representative from the Daughters of Charity.

We offer short-term supported accommodation for up to 4 people living with HIV/AIDS. Respite accommodation is also offered, depending on availability. Accommodation may also be provided for carers and family members. The maximum period of stay is 3 months.

Stanford House is funded substantially from grants from the New South Wales Department of Health, through the auspices of the Sydney South West Area Health Service, and from private fundraising.

Stanford House is located in Stanmore and is close to local buses, Stanmore railway station, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital and retail outlets.

We provide a safe, comfortable, restful and home-like atmosphere for people living with HIV/AIDS in need of short-term emergency and respite accommodation.

We assist by making appropriate referrals to other professional agencies and NGOs assist with your long-term goals of independent living with a focus on health, wellbeing and accommodation. We also provide emotional support in a positive and respectful manner. While we expect our clients to have independent living skills, we can assist with every day tasks if necessary.

Through our local Outreach service, we can also provide follow-up support, if desired, following your stay in Stanford House.

We recognise the dignity and value of each individual who stays with us. We do not discriminate on the basis of your sex, race, age, religion, sexual orientation, or ethnic origin.

We are proud of our contribution in supporting many people since 1991.

We are happy to talk directly with referring agencies and potential clients, but referrals ultimately will come via the Central Accommodation Intake Officer, whose contacts we can provide at the time.

We charge each guest $140.00* per week: this covers you for all your food and accommodation. The only extra costs are for any local personal phone calls you make. (*as at December 2010)

A paid member of staff is usually on duty for each weekday and for part of the weekend. We also have a team of wonderful volunteers who assist with a variety of tasks. However, we do encourage you to be as independent as you can be.

If you want more information about staying or volunteering with us, making a tax-deductible donation or becoming a member, please do contact us between 9am-5pm Monday to Friday or 9am-1pm on Weekends.