Homelessness Week is fast approaching, with events starting to kick off from Sunday 6 August.
Local homelessness organisations and advocacy groups are banding together once again to host a range of forums and lunches to help spread the message and theme of “It’s time to end homelessness”.
Join Holy fools, Anchor, Yarra Ranges Housing Action Group, ADRA, Stable One, Mr Soupee and Yarra Ranges Council as they collectively work towards a better outcome for homelessness in the Yarra Ranges.
Beginning the week off with a Homelessness Forum on Sunday 6 August, it’s a chance for people to hear from local organisations and agencies on the current state of homelessness in the region, as well as the goals and dreams of what the future could look like.
That will be hosted at the Tecoma Uniting Church from 2pm, doors opening at 1.30pm. Address, 1566 Burwood Highway, Tecoma.
Then on Monday 7 August, take the opportunity to ask questions with a Homelessness Q&A starting at 10am. It will be followed by lunch at 11.30am before rejoining for the launch of Homelessness Week at 12.30pm.
Tuesday 8 August will see people gather in Melba Park Lilydale at 1pm for a Homeless Memorial Service to pay tribute to those who have died from the effects of homelessness.
Holy Fools will run it’s Wednesday Street Angels program on 9 August, providing lunch in Melba Park to those experiencing homelessness, while Thursday 10 August CIS Yarra Ranges will be providing a barbecue lunch. Both begin at noon.
To round out the week, residents can join the Cerini Walk in Warburton, starting at Wesburn/Millgrove CFA, to advocate for more social and affordable housing in the Upper Yarra.
Meet at 11am to take part in the walk.
Don’t forget Holy Fools is also raising money through a new sleep out challenge called FreezeOut!
It invites people to sleep outside, in their car, on the couch or somewhere uncomfortable for just one night throughout Homelessness Week to better understand the experience being homeless.
If you’re interested in finding out more, please visit www.freezeout.org.au. Sign up, sponsor someone, and if you’re a business keen to get involved, please get in touch with Neal Taylor at Holy Fools, 1300 133 889 or 0417579944.
