Last chance to donate to Homeless Connect

Published on 15 May 2019

Homeless-Connect-can-you-help.jpg

Local residents only have a few more days to make their donations to Homeless Connect, with good quality children’s clothes, blankets, and non-perishable food items being particularly sought after.

Communities Chair, Councillor Rose Swadling, said once again locals had come out in force to support those experiencing hard times.

“Every year I am delighted – but not surprised – by the amazing generosity shown by our community.

“I think people realise how easy it can be to end up experiencing homelessness. For many it’s just a couple of pay cheques away.

“When those who have fallen on hard times come to our event they’ll get a warm welcome, food, clothes, and access to lots of free services from haircuts to health checks.

“We can’t offer this without the wonderful donations from our community. We have received lots already but could really do with more, especially of blankets, good quality children’s clothing, and non-perishable food items.  You can even drop off a gift card from a supermarket if you prefer, and our volunteers will go out and purchase the items we need.”

Wayne Stevens, a RentConnect Officer at the Rockhampton Housing Service Centre, said he had seen firsthand what a difference Homeless Connect could make.

“A gentleman who came to last year’s event had fallen on some really hard times and was having to sleep in his car.

“He came to Homeless Connect to get a haircut, but saw our booth while he was there. He opened up about his living situation and explained that while he could afford to pay rent, he didn’t understand the application process and couldn’t afford a bond.

“We called a local estate agent, found an apartment for him, organised for the agent to help him with his application and secured a same day bond loan.

“He walked into the Homeless Connect event at 9am after weeks of sleeping in his car, and by 3pm he was moving into his new home. We know that access to safe and stable accommodation has a hugely positive impact on your health and employment prospects: it really does change lives.”

The Homeless Connect Event will be held at Rockhampton Showgrounds on May 23.

Where to donate:

Southside Location

Rockhampton Showgrounds Caretaker’s Cottage, Exhibition Road Wandal (to the right of the Showgrounds Main Entrance and opposite Rockhampton State High School)

Northside Locations

Multicultural Development Association Office, 108 Alexandra Street, Park Avenue

Anglicare, 160 Musgrave Street

When:

Wednesday 15, Thursday 16 and Friday 17 May between 9am and 5pm.

An additional drop off session will be held between the hours of 8am and 12 noon on Saturday 18 May at the Southside Location only.

 For more information get in touch on facebook or call 1300 22 55 77.