Safe space a priority for rough sleepers

Published on 09 October 2019

On the eve of World Homelessness Day, the City of Hobart is bringing attention to the need for increased services to assist people experiencing or facing the real possibility of homelessness in the city.

“Tomorrow is World Homelessness Day, which is a day to raise awareness of the need to support people in our community who have – for any number of reasons – found themselves without the safety of a home,” Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds said.

Cr Reynolds will attend a Lord Mayors’ World Homelessness Day roundtable in Melbourne, at which participants hope to identify, develop and promote solutions to the housing and homelessness crisis.

“We know homelessness is on the rise in Hobart and it will take a collaborative effort from all stakeholders to find real and effective solutions,” she said.

“We are pleased that the City of Hobart has been able to support the Salvation Army and Hobart City Mission in an effort to establish a Safe Night Space pilot program to support people sleeping rough in our city.

“The establishment of a safe night space was a key priority identified by the Greater Hobart Homelessness Alliance. This space will provide somewhere safe from the elements to spend the night and where they can connect with vital support services.

“The City of Hobart is contributing to the costs through the provision of a venue and associated services but further funding is needed to get the service up and running.

“The two charity organisations have launched a public fundraising campaign to assist with the significant costs that are associated with such a service.

“We hope the state government, along with corporate donors and the broader community, will also come on board to support the Greater Hobart community by investing in a service that will directly benefit those with the greatest need.”

To donate to the Safe Night Space pilot program, visit hobartcitymission.org.au/safe-night-space or phone 03 6215 4200.