TENTS, ribbons and barbecues were just some of the ways awareness of homelessness was raised in Swan Hill last week.
Mallee Family Care and Haven Home Safe spread the message in the community for National Homelessness Week which ran from August 5 to 11.
This year’s theme was “Homeless Action Now”.
The week ended with a sausage sizzle outside Coles shopping centre organised by Better Bookkeeping Management, Mallee Family Care and Haven Home Safe.
Community engagement coordinator of BBKM Jane Prochilo said people had been generous with donations and had been asking questions about homelessness while stopping to get a sausage.
“Bringing awareness plays a part in supporting homeless people in our community – many of whom sleep by the river as it’s a free space, taking a leaf out of grey nomads,” Ms Prochilo said.
“But Mallee Family Care are also here, and they also help by providing people sleeping rough with essential items like soap and body wash, toothpaste, and sanitary items in all sizes.
“Haven Home Safe also provides these items through the Rough Sleeper Assertive Outreach Program.”
Swan Hill Haven Home Safe worker Rebecca Green said homelessness is often more nuanced and complex than what people may think.
“We’re respectful of people sleeping rough and only engage with people who want to chat with us,” she said.
“We meet with people to learn more about the challenges they’re facing and how we can best support them.
“For some people this may look like food vouchers, blankets, referrals for accommodation, helping them attend appointments, understanding how to access housing options, connecting them with other supports or just a chance to chat – many people don’t realise just how lonely homelessness can be.”
According to ABS data from April 2023, homelessness in the Swan Hill local government area had increased by three times in five years.
Ms Prochilo said family violence, youth violence and financial trouble are some of the factors reported to have contributed to homelessness and rough sleeping in the region.
“The cost of living has certainly increased recently, but that doesn’t mean people’s incomes have,” she said.
“Many things have now become a luxury for some people who are starting to struggle paying for rent.
“And more people are struggling than ever before, resulting in rising demand for services like Mallee Family Care and Haven Home Safe.”
