Mission general manager Chris Bertinshaw thanked the local media for helping draw attention to the plight of Western Sydney's homeless.

``These funds will support almost 80 women and 125 accompanying children who seek refuge from domestic violence each year,'' he said.

``Money will also be allocated to the Youth Crisis Refuge to assist young people.''

Merekia, who found herself on the streets at a young age, explained the importance of Parramatta Mission's work.

``I was suicidal and had just overdosed when Parrahouse took me in,'' she said. ``They helped me get back on my feet and now I'm studying a TAFE accredited course.''

Minister for Housing David Borger presented the cheque and recalled his days working at the mission.

``It's hard to imagine anything worse than not having a place to call home,'' he said.