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“Homelessness Week 2024 is an opportunity for us to come together as a community and make a real difference in the lives of those experiencing homelessness. We are calling on everyone in the Byron Shire to take positive action and support locals in need. Your involvement can make a significant impact in helping us continue to provide essential services and support”. Damian Farrell, Manager Fletcher Street Cottage.
As Homelessness Week 2024 approaches, the community of Byron Bay is being called to action. From August 5 to 11, Fletcher Street Cottage, our community homeless hub, is spearheading efforts to address the local housing crisis under the theme “Homelessness Action Now.” With a 138% increase in people seeking help over the past year, the need for community support has never been greater.
So, how can you help? Here are five ways to take action:
1. Make a Donation
Financial contributions are critical to maintaining and expanding services. Donations can be made via www.giveheart.au. Whether it’s a one-off donation or a regular contribution, every bit helps.
2. Sign Up for the Big Byron Sleepout
Join the community in raising awareness and funds by participating in the Big Byron Sleepout on August 17. Sign up to sleep out at www.bigbyronsleepout.com.
3. Become a Partner
Businesses and individuals can make a difference by raising funds, hosting events, or sharing information with their networks. Donations of goods and services are also welcome.
4. Leave a Bequest
Consider leaving a lasting legacy by including Fletcher Street Cottage in your will. A bequest can provide long-term support and help sustain critical services for future generations.
5. Volunteer
Fletcher Street Cottage offers various volunteer opportunities, from helping with breakfast, showers and laundry services to assisting with fundraising events. Your time and skills are invaluable.
Since opening in 2022, Fletcher Street Cottage has been a cornerstone of the community, providing over 22,000 breakfasts, 9.600 showers and laundry services along with vital connections to health and social services. The recent 2024 Street Count revealed a 16% increase in the local rough sleeping population, now at 348 individuals.
Jacqui Boyett, Director of Global Ripple, expressed the importance of continued support: “With the current climate of mental health rates, housing crisis and support systems stretched, Fletcher Street Cottage is an all-encompassing light, covering a multitude of services. We feel honored to support Fletcher Street Cottage which supports so many. it’s an easy decision to pledge continued support and help an organisation whose life’s work is to support others.”
Farrell highlights the significance of community involvement: “The support we provide at Fletcher Street Cottage is more critical than ever. The Street Count only provides a snapshot of rough sleeping, which doesn’t account for the many hidden homeless sleeping in cars, tents and couchsurfing. Our community’s actions during Homelessness Week can make a real difference in the lives of those we serve."
Call to Action:
This Homelessness Week, the Byron Bay community has a chance to make a tangible difference. Whether through donations, participating in events, or volunteering every action counts. Together we can support those in our community who are struggling and work towards a future where everyone has a safe place to call home.
