One of Australia’s most iconic charities is wishing for a Christmas miracle to arrive for thousands of Sunshine Coast residents who are doing it tough.
Vinnies Queensland is hoping for the best for the 2531 locals who are on the state social housing waiting list, including 900 who are spending the holiday season homeless.
The group recently issued a heartfelt press release, stressing the region’s record low vacancy rates and ever-increasing cost of living stress.
It said residents on the social housing waiting list were waiting more than two years on average to find an affordable place to call home – an 80 per cent increase in waiting time since 2017.
Vinnies Queensland Sunshine Coast Regional President Beryl Rowan said these were testing times.
“Across Queensland, we receive more than 2000 calls a week for support, a 30 per cent increase year-on-year,” she said.
“December is always a time of great need and with a worsening housing crisis, we’re seeing a record number of locals reaching out for help.”
The group pushed for more affordable housing and cost of living relief, and Ms Rowan said the community could do its part for battling locals this Christmas, by donating to the Vinnies Christmas Appeal.
“Right now, Vinnies are focused on ensuring people can spend this Christmas with shelter, food and safety. And while we’ve supported many to find permanent housing, it’s still an uphill battle,” she said.
“Our members in the region do amazing work in dedicating their time to answer calls from those in need – but the help Vinnies provides isn’t possible without the support of our donors.”
“We encourage anyone wanting to make Christmas a happier time for those doing it tough to donate to our Christmas Appeal.
“Sunshine Coast members and volunteers are also busy preparing Christmas hampers to distribute to families in need, to bring much-needed joy and hope to those who desperately need it.
To donate, visit Vinnies – Donate or call 13 18 12.
More younger people on the streets
The Maroochydore Sleepbus service has provided 423 safe sleeps for locals experiencing homelessness since July, and demand is so high a second bus is required solely for women and children.
Founder Simon Rowe sat down with Mal Cayley and Dave Mclenaghan on the ‘Homes for Everyone’ podcast this week and said more needed to be done to address the growing issue.
“We’re definitely seeing a change in people,” Mr Rowe said.
“When we launched earlier this year, we saw a lot of long-term men and women using the service but now we’re (also) seeing younger couples (aged under 30).
“Quite often they’ve got jobs, just nowhere to live. It’s not a good reflection on us as a society and a community that we’re not doing enough.”
The Sleepbus runs three nights a week, but as more volunteers and sponsors jump on board it is hoped that will increase to seven.
It has up to 20 secure, climate controlled, individual sleep pods in twin cabins, each with a lockable door and toilet.
Mr Rowe said a good night’s sleep has a flow-on effect.
“You’ll see these people jump on of a night time and in the morning they are completely different people. Quite often they say it’s the greatest sleep they’ve ever had.”
“They can then go to other agencies to help them with homelessness and they can have decent conversations because they’ve had a rest.”
Direct Collective COO Mal Cayley said having the right people at the table is more important than ever.
He said we needed to focus on increasing supply instead of putting red tape on investors.
The Homes for Everyone initiative is calling for people to put their digital hand up to join the growing voice that’s saying, ‘enough is enough’ and real housing solutions need to be delivered.
Need a hand?
Queenslanders who need a helping hand this Christmas can access a range of services and supports to ease the burden this festive season.
Minister for Communities and Housing Leeanne Enoch urged people to visit their local neighbourhood or community centre for information, services and referrals to support services.
“Some of those centres can also provide emergency relief in the lead-up to Christmas, including food, vouchers and financial assistance,” she said.
For Queenslanders experiencing housing stress over the festive period, Housing Service Centres will be open until December 23, and will then reopen on January 3. Queenslanders in need of support during this period can call the Homeless Hotline on 1800 474 753 or 13QGOV (13 74 68), which will both be open during this time.
