New face of homelessness

By Jonathon Howard

A NEW face of homelessness is emerging in the Tweed Shire, according to Fred’s Place manager Kim Kennedy, who’s seeing a rise in the working class and families sleeping rough each night, and many are crying out for help.

She said around 120 homeless visit Fred’s Place each morning after sleeping in tents and in their vehicles to have a shower, do their washing and have a meal.

“It’s important they look as dignified as possible before heading off to work,” Ms Kennedy said.

“Many are stricken by the lack of housing and affordable rentals but have employment in the Tweed.”

Fred’s Place, based at Tweed Heads, is a non-government-funded crisis hub that’s been running for the past eight years with four staff members who have never seen it this bad.

“When we originally launched we catered for 60 people per week and we’re now assisting 120 per day, which is making our service burst at the seams,” Ms Kennedy said.

“Our oldest homeless person to visit daily is 91 and youngest is 16.”

Although the need for housing is dire, Ms Kennedy said there are some immediate things that residents can do to help the homeless today.

“The facility receives no government funding or assistance, and we rely heavily on donations from the local clubs and residents,” she said.

“You can donate food and hampers. Volunteers are crucial and always welcome.”

Ms Kennedy said the situation has be -

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“This is not only bad for the owners, but it’s happened because there is no alternative,” she said.

“These environments have no running water or electricity and can be unsafe.”

Ms Kennedy said she wanted to again stress the need for residents to get out and lend a hand to a homeless charity or make a donation.

“These donations keep us running and are really appreciated, warm blankets, food, emergency assistance, and we help with fuel cards, we appreciate any help,” she said.

“We’re also having our Vinnies Sleep Out at Seagulls Club on Friday, August 25, with Mandy Nolan as MC and Mayor Chris Cherry visiting. Anyone can be involved via the vinnies.org.au/communitysleepout.”

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