Breaking stereotypes about homelessness and connecting vulnerable people with services was at the forefront of the inaugural Homeless Connect Day.
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Homeless Connect Day was an opportunity for at-risk people to access help before they reach crisis point, and for those who are experiencing homelessness to receive practical assistance.
Gunnedah Family Support Home Base, with support from the Gunnedah Homelessness Action Team hosted 15 service providers at the Gunnedah Town Hall on Tuesday to break the stigma surrounding homelessness and provide education and support to those doing it tough. More than 20 per cent of Gunnedah renting households are experiencing rental stress, struggling to afford basic expenses after spending over 30 per cent of their income on rent.
“We really wanted to create awareness of homelessness and change people’s perceptions that it is not just people living on the street,” Home Base case worker Lenelle Ritter said.
“We have received great feedback and support from service providers and attendees. We have had all the services here in the one place to address the needs of those who might be doing it a bit tough in whatever way.”
The event saw a variety of donated clothes from members of the public, two hairdressers on hand providing free hair cuts, Home Base handed out blankets and Rapid Food Relief provided a food service.
Ten housing providers were represented to offer information, as well as mental health and disability support services.
“It was great to see a collaboration between all our vital services,” Ms Ritter said.