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This week is homelessness week. According to the Australian Human Rights Commission, every night, roughly 1 in 200 Australians find themselves without a safe, secure or affordable place to sleep. Everyone has the right to an adequate standard of living including adequate food, water and housing and to the continuous improvement of living conditions. In 2021, a federal parliamentary inquiry highlighted three key areas for reform: 1. Prevention and early intervention, the “most effective and cost-efficient measures to address homelessness”. 2. “Housing First” approach, moving people experiencing long-term, chronic or recurring homelessness into supported housing as quickly as possible. 3. Reducing the shortfall in social and affordable housing. As an individual we can feel powerless against such a crisis, however there are many organisations fighting to support homeless people everyday. This week I am dedicated to finding ways to volunteer my time or resources to supporting this cause. See volunteer programs in Sydney if you’d like to get involved: https://lnkd.in/gQkbUrJ4 See more information: https://lnkd.in/gcERUwmV https://lnkd.in/gt_u385s

Participating in an event where individuals sleep in cardboard boxes for a few nights, such as the Vinnies CEO Sleepout in Perth, has several benefits for the cause of homeless people in Western Australia: 1. Raising Awareness: It helps raise awareness about the plight of homeless individuals by providing participants a glimpse into the challenges faced by those without shelter. 2. Fundraising: These events often serve as fundraisers, generating much-needed financial support for charities and services that aid the homeless. 3. Solidarity: It shows solidarity with the homeless community, signaling to them that their struggles are recognized and that there is a communal effort to address their needs. 4. Advocacy: By involving community leaders and CEOs, it can lead to increased advocacy for policy changes and social support systems to prevent and reduce homelessness. 5. Education: Participants and observers can learn about the complex issues contributing to homelessness, fostering a more informed and compassionate public discourse. Such initiatives are crucial in bringing attention to the issue of homelessness and can catalyze action from both the public and private sectors to create long-term solutions.

In recognition of World Homeless Day, we acknowledge that homelessness is more than just a lack of shelter. It’s a complex issue tied to a web of circumstances: job loss, mental health challenges, domestic violence, natural disasters, rising housing costs, and the breakdown of support systems. Each individual’s story is unique, yet the impact is universal—no one should be left without a safe place to call home. At HomeAid, we’re committed to breaking down these barriers. Through our housing, community engagement, and educational initiatives, we help people rebuild their lives and restore hope. Our mission is clear: to end homelessness by addressing its root causes and empowering individuals with the tools and resources they need to thrive. From building shelters and affordable housing to offering support programs, our impact extends far beyond four walls. Together, we can make a difference. This World Homeless Day, let’s turn compassion into action. Help us build a future without homelessness by volunteering, donating, spreading awareness, or being a Sponsor at our Annual Homecoming Luncheon. Every step matters. Every person counts. Let’s stand together and work towards a world where everyone has a safe place to call home. Visit our website (homeaidaustin.org) to donate, find volunteer opportunities and sponsorship options! #worldhomelessday #buildingnewlives

300,000 individuals are officially homeless in UK!! As of early 2024, official data reveals that 86,520 households in England became homeless or were at risk of homelessness between January and March, including 28,560 families with children. This marks a 6% increase compared to the same period in 2023. The financial impact of homelessness in the UK is significant. An estimated single person sleeping rough for 12 months costs the government £20,128. However, the consequences extend far beyond finances—homelessness leads to social isolation, creates barriers to education, training, and employment, and has a profound effect on mental and physical health. As proud associates of Fine & Country, we recognize our privilege in dealing with exceptional properties. We contribute to the Fine & Country Foundation with every property sale to give back. We also invite our clients to join us in making a difference! 💛 We host numerous fundraising events throughout the year, including climbing Everest, Tough Mudders, Golf days, and even sleeping on the streets for a night to raise awareness of homelessness. Join us in our mission to combat homelessness and support our community! #FineAndCountry #FineAndCountryFoundation #Homelessness #CharityEvents #SocialImpact #CommunitySupport #GivingBack #RealEstateWithPurpose #Fundraising #EndHomelessness #MentalHealthMatters #EducationForAll Guy Simmons

The Power of Partnerships in the NPO Sector: A Key to Tackling Homelessness At The Haven Night Shelter, we understand that the fight against homelessness cannot be won alone. Our mission to provide shelter, care, and support to the homeless is made stronger through the invaluable partnerships we have forged within the community. These collaborations amplify our efforts, extend our reach, and enhance the impact we have on the lives of those we serve. Partnerships are vital in the nonprofit sector because they foster shared knowledge, resources, and expertise. Whether it is through local businesses, government agencies, or other nonprofits, working together allows us to address the complex issues of homelessness more effectively. Each partner brings a unique set of skills, from providing basic necessities like food and clothing to offering vital services such as healthcare, education, and job training. For The Haven Night Shelter, our partners are more than just supporters—they are integral to the sustainability and success of our programs. Together, we are not just offering a temporary solution but empowering individuals to break the cycle of homelessness and build brighter futures. We are incredibly grateful for the continued support of our partners, whose generosity and commitment help us make a lasting difference in the lives of those experiencing homelessness. Together, we can do more than we ever could alone. #Partnerships #NonprofitSector #Homelessness #SocialImpact #TheHavenNightShelter #CommunitySupport

When you hear Homelessness, what do you think? Would you know if any of your staff were experiencing homelessness, or what to do to support them? What does Hidden Homelessness mean? I’ve been at The Clock Tower Sanctuary, Brighton for more than 9 months now and during that time I’ve had numerous conversations about what we do here. Whether it’s friends, family, donors, corporate supporters or even politicians, the first thing they tend to talk about is how many more people they are seeing sleeping in tents and doorways in the city. There’s no doubt that the number of rough sleepers has gone up, we’ve seen a nearly 200% increase here. The impact this has on people’s physical and mental health, their vulnerability to crime and exploitation, and loneliness and isolation cannot be overstated. But this is just the tip of the iceberg. There are far more people, many of them young, who are sofa surfing, living in cars or other vehicles, or in overcrowded or unsafe conditions. Their stories are less seen but no less urgent. On the 25th of September, in collaboration with PLATF9RM and Watch This Sp_ce, we’re going to be shedding light on the realities and often overlooked struggles around Hidden Homelessness. Raising awareness of this is the first step towards supporting people and creating change. It promises to be a challenging and important session, please join us! https://lnkd.in/e_b7xn94 We’re enormously grateful that all ticket sales and donations will be going to Clock Tower Sanctuary, helping us continue our vital work supporting all young people experiencing homelessness. #homelessness #brighton #hiddenhomelessness #

🌍 Today is World Homeless Day: A Call to Action 🌍 On October 10th, let’s take a moment to raise awareness and extend compassion to the millions of people experiencing homelessness across the globe. Homelessness is not just a global issue—it affects our local communities in profound ways.  Each one of us can make a difference, even with small actions. Here are five ideas to help your local unhoused population: 1. Volunteer your time: Whether at a shelter, food bank, or outreach organization, dedicating your time can make a huge impact. Your support can provide essential services or simply bring warmth and connection to someone in need.    2. Donate supplies: Gather donations of essential items like warm clothing, hygiene products, or blankets, especially as we approach colder months. Many local shelters and organizations have wish lists of needed supplies. 3. Support local housing initiatives: Advocate for affordable housing policies in your area. Support initiatives that push for more housing development and resources for those facing housing insecurity. 4. Share your expertise: If you have skills in healthcare, law, counseling, or employment services, consider offering your professional expertise to support individuals who are unhoused, helping them regain stability. 5. Raise awareness and fundraise: Use your voice on social media and within your community to spread awareness. Fundraising efforts, even small ones, can help local organizations sustain their crucial work. Each action, no matter how small, contributes to creating a more compassionate and inclusive community. Let’s all do our part to ensure that everyone has access to safe shelter and the opportunity for a better future. 💙🏠 #WorldHomelessDay #CommunitySupport #EndHomelessness #TakeAction

Fact Friday: The Hidden Crisis of Youth Homelessness 📊 Did you know? 35,000-40,000 young people experience homelessness in Canada every year 20% of Canada's homeless population is between 13-24 years old The average life expectancy for a person experiencing homelessness is just 39 years These aren't just numbers—they're young lives filled with potential, dreams, and challenges. At Safe Haven Foundation, we're working tirelessly to change these statistics, one young person at a time. Here's how you can help: Donate: Even $10 can provide a warm meal Volunteer: Share your skills and time Spread awareness: Share this post to educate others Every action, no matter how small, can be the turning point in a young person's life. Visit safehavenfoundation.ca to learn more and get involved. Together, we can rewrite these statistics and create a future where every young person has a safe place to call home. #FactFriday #YouthHomelessness #BeTheChange #SafeHavenFoundation

There are seven days left until Christmas a time to reflect on how charity is more than just an act of giving. It’s about genuine care, compassion, and extending a hand to those who need it most. Charity is rooted in love and affection, as shown by figures like Mother Teresa and her Missionaries of Charity, who dedicated their lives to serving those society often overlooks. Their work reminds us that charity isn’t about waiting for others to seek help but stepping forward to meet their needs with grace and humanity. Closer to home, organizations like Shower the People in Nashville embody this spirit by providing mobile showers and laundry services to those experiencing homelessness. Their work reminds us that charity is about more than donations—it’s about restoring dignity and offering essentials with compassion. Just like the innkeeper who found space for Mary and Joseph or the Good Samaritan who stopped to help, small actions can create a ripple effect of kindness and hope. At its heart, charity reflects the spirit of seeing beyond oneself to care for the vulnerable. Often, it’s not about solving every problem but doing what we can with what we have and making a meaningful impact on someone’s life. As we celebrate the season of giving, let’s remember that charity is about showing up for others in ways that truly matter. Whether it’s giving time, resources, or a simple act of kindness, every gesture counts. This season, let’s “go and do likewise,” carrying the spirit of charity into our workplaces and communities. #KindnessMatters #LeadershipThroughService #SeasonOfGiving https://lnkd.in/g3Yg5kjG

Human Rights Day 10th December 2024 Today, on #HumanRightsDay, we’re reminded of the essential rights and dignity every person has and deserves. At Rentstart, we see first-hand how vital it is to help to provide the basic right to shelter, and how this in turn can lead to the restoration of purpose and dignity. Homelessness is more than a lack of housing - it’s a denial of stability, safety, and opportunity. Every person we support carries a unique story of resilience and hope. Through collaboration and care, we strive to empower individuals to find their feet within the private rented sector. As a homeless charity based in Elmbridge, we’re proud of the impact we’ve made this year. The support we’ve been able to provide to those facing or experiencing homelessness comes from a dedicated team of staff, volunteers, and supporters who share our vision and aim to end local homelessness. Here’s what we’ve achieved together in 2024 so far: 64 reports of new rough sleepers in Elmbridge 622 enquiries for our support 220 new clients registered 824 hot meals and snacks given to our clients from the hub 40 individuals a month attended the hub, where we offer a range of support services 85 clients housed These numbers show how vital homelessness intervention is, and the support for housing has never been more needed. Housing is a right, it is not a privilege. If you want to support us this festive period, please go to rentstart.org. You can donate here, or be part of our Christmas gift campaign by putting a present under our Christmas tree.