A Byron Bay homeless hub that provides a safe and secure environment for those in need has celebrated its first anniversary.
Fletcher Street Cottage organisers say, since opening its doors on April 12, 2022, the Fletcher Street Cottage has seen over 7,000 visits to the service from people experiencing homelessness or at risk of becoming homeless.
The cottage offers a range of services, including breakfast, shower and laundry facilities, and access to medical and housing services.
Remarkably, there is no ongoing government funding for these services, and they operate thanks to the generous support of community members and local businesses.
Lindy Swain, Fletcher Street Cottage Manager, says, ‘The team at Fletcher Street Cottage work tirelessly to improve the daily lot of our most vulnerable. Providing support in system navigation, sourcing important documentation, emergency relief and connecting to other community organisations are just some of the services we provide. Most importantly we offer compassion and a listening ear.’
30 per cent increase
Louise O’Connell, General Manager of the Byron Community Centre, who manage the cottage, says, ‘We are thrilled to celebrate this milestone, and are grateful for the support we have received from the community’.
‘Fletcher Street Cottage has become a vital resource for those in need, and we are proud to be able to provide a safe and welcoming space for people to access support and services’.
Organisers say they see around 800 visitors per month, or between 30 to 70 service users per day, which is up 30 per cent from 2022.
700 free breakfasts are served per month, while 30 per cent of service users access shower and laundry facilities.Visiting services include Social Futures, Momentum Collective, Centrelink, Community Corrections and the Homelessness Health Outreach Team (HHOT), plus a hairdresser, GP and a podiatrist.
To learn more about Fletcher Street Cottage and to donate, visit www.byroncentre.com.au.
Thank you for your service.