Dignity – Guest Comfort Project
The Guest Comfort Project aims to upgrade the essentials in the guest homes for people experiencing homelessness. We believe that until a person’s basic needs of safety, food and shelter are met, they are less likely to be able to find their path forward out of homelessness. A hot shower, a nourishing meal and a good night’s sleep often mean our guests have a space to start planning their first steps forward.
ACCF’s contribution enabled the Project to upgrade 300 blankets, towels and pillows, providing a welcoming and comfortable environment for the guests.
On behalf of their clients, Dignity thanks ACCF for its generous donation supporting people at risk of or experiencing homelessness.
Dignity guest room with new towel, pillow and blanket
Southlake Inc
Women Illawarra – W.I.S.E
Women. Informed. Supported. Empowered (W.I.S.E) is a program to support older women 55+ at risk of homelessness or have experienced homelessness.
11 people registered their interest in Term 2.
Women Illawarra secured local and national agencies to support the sessions and provided specialist information, practical tips and resources to the participants. Supporting agencies include WEA, Good Shepherd Financial Services , Dress for Success and many local businesses who are committed to supporting older women. ACCF funding had enabled the organisation to put together welcome bags for participants that include a notebook, pen, steel water bottle and document wallet so they have a safe place to store all the information they gather (photo below).
The project targets women who are generally hard to reach and engage due to the vulnerabilities these women experience, including no access to the internet, transient accommodation, ongoing legal matters and access to transport. Women Illawarra is working hard to overcome these barriers eg by offering transport to those that need it, and placing fliers in high traffic areas, such as shopping centers and libraries to increase awareness and participation in the program.
It is hoped that the success of the program will promote itself through word of mouth.
Women Illawarra thanks ACCF for the support saying the fund helps vulnerable older women whose needs
Emergency Assistance Funding
Number of applications: 42
Applications granted: 13
Funds provided: $12,650
