How our charities feed the homeless

Homelessness Week for 2021 (August 1-7) is drawing to a close, and once again it’s done a great job in raising awareness of the impact of homelessness in Australia. But one thing people sometimes forget is that with homelessness comes hunger. So we’ve decided to shine a light on the amazing efforts our charities make to feed the homeless.

Being “homeless” can be defined in many different ways. It can impact anyone from any socioeconomic class at any time – it doesn’t discriminate. Each night more than 116,000 Australians are in crisis accommodation or temporary housing, couch surfing, sleeping in their car or on the streets. Although some of these people might technically have a roof over their heads, they’re all considered to be homeless.

The importance of mealtimes

Australia has a number of great food rescue organisations, including Oz Harvest, Foodbank, SecondBite and Fareshare. They’re all committed to helping our frontline charities feed those in need. While these organisations continue to do an amazing job, many are in desperate need of longer-term solutions. And when a person is worried about where they can safely sleep for the night, often the last thing on their mind is how to go about sourcing a nutritious meal. This is why mealtimes at our crisis and emergency accommodation centres are so important. In fact, they’re a crucial part of the support process.

In the video below and as part of our support of the 2021 Vinnies CEO Sleepout, Eativity caught up with staff and volunteers from Freeman House in Armidale; John Purcell House in Nowra; Edel Quinn in Wagga Wagga; and Sydney’s Matthew Talbot Hostel and Marian Centre. Check it out to learn more about how our charities feed the homeless.

If you’d like to help Australia’s homeless, go to the Vinnies website to donate to their Winter Appeal. For more on homelessness in Australia and support services, head to homelessnessaustralia.org.au