Leaf Bean Machine owners Fleur and Brad Cassidy will provide free hot drinks at Homeless Connect.
Camera IconLeaf Bean Machine owners Fleur and Brad Cassidy will provide free hot drinks at Homeless Connect. Credit: Supplied/Martin Kennealey

Event aims to connect homeless to services

Staff ReporterFremantle Gazette

Marija Jelavic, event manager for Homeless Connect Perth’s November 13 event at Northbridge’s Hellenic Community Centre, said the event was aimed at connecting people with the services they needed, including accommodation, legal advice, employment options and training, and free health checks.

‘The key word for this project is ‘connect’. It is about the whole community connecting for a common goal as most of the guests are not only homeless but they have little or no connection with services, the community, family or friends,’ she said.

Ms Jelavic said she had faith the initiative could go some way to improving the lives of the estimated 9500 Western Australians experiencing homelessness.

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‘Evidence from past experiences proves that most people are eager to move towards self-sufficiency when approached in a respectful and kind manner and with available resources,’ she said.

‘By having direct services provided on the day in one place, it takes a huge burden and stress off people who are often trying to work through many issues in their lives.’

Bibra Lake business owners Brad and Fleur Cassidy will offer free hot drinks on the day. One of their suppliers has also chipped in 1000 thermal cups.

‘We feel it is an incredibly important event to get involved in as no-one should be homeless in Australia,’ Mrs Cassidy said.

Donations of non-perishable foods, disposable shavers, deodorants, combs, shampoo and soap, summer clothing and footwear for children, teenagers and adults and toys and books are still required.

For more information, visit www.volunteeringwa.org.au.