Homeless need helping hand

NEWS

The City Council wants the community to help it reach out to the city’s homeless through next month’s Homeless Connect event at the RNA Showgrounds from 9am to 2pm on November 3, with breakfast from 8am.

Homeless Connect has aided 5000 since its inception in 2006 and aims to ease the uncertainties and isolation suffered by disadvantaged groups in Brisbane. People can enjoy a meal, access medical and optical care, accommodation referral advice, haircuts and clothing.
Lord Mayor Campbell Newman said council was proud to present the important community event and urged the wider community to help where possible. “Donations of clothing, shoes, blankets, towels, toiletries and canned goods can be made at any St Vincent de Paul store, or your local councillor’s ward office,” he said.
“While these goods may not seem like much to us, they will mean the world to those in need.” Cr Newman said it was pleasing to see Brisbane business, community groups and residents unite in support of the Homeless Connect event in May.
“I invite anyone in Brisbane who is experiencing homelessness or is at risk of becoming homeless to come along on the day to access services and support,” he said.
Free bus services will commence at 7.30am on the northside on November 3, stopping at New Farm Neighbourhood Centre, Footprints, 139 Club, Pindari Hostel and Roma House. On the southside the free service will stop at West End Community House, Brisbane Homeless Service Centre, OzCare and Bowman Johnson Hostel.
Council is partnering with Volunteering Queensland and St Vincent de Paul to deliver the event, with support from the Queensland Government’s Department of Communities and Drug-Arm Australasia.
To volunteer, contact Volunteering Queensland at www.volunteeringqld.org.au.

• For further information about Homeless Connect, visit www.brisbane.qld.qov.au or phone council on 3403 8888.