A free breakfast to feed the hungry will be served up once a month in Bundaberg thanks to a local leading not-for-profit housing organisation and the Rapid Relief Team.
Stephen Bennett MP with the Rapid Relief Team and Regional Housing Limited, promoting their Breakfast Stop initiative.
Regional Housing Limited has teamed up with the Rapid Relief Team to host a free Breakfast Stop, open to the homeless and others in need, the first Wednesday of every month.
Regional Housing Limited spokesperson Erin Evans said the two like-minded organisations have come together to assist those in need within the local community by offering a free breakfast, and access to free support and referrals if required.
“Our partnership will see the ‘The Breakfast Stop’ kick off this Wednesday as another channel to help relieve the stress faced by the homeless and struggling families and individuals,” Ms Evans said.
“A simple meal will make the day of the vulnerable in our community a little easier.
“With some encouragement, direction and the right supports and assistance people can improve their situation for the better.”
Ms Evans said over the past six months, more than 560 individuals or families have presented at Regional Housing Limited seeking homelessness support, immediate accommodation or homelessness information.
Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett has thrown his support behind the Breakfast Stop and praised Regional Housing Limited on the initiative.
“I commend Regional Housing Limited on the great work they do every day in supporting those who are vulnerable…. the Breakfast Stop is a great way to show people who are facing hardships in this community that we care.
Mr Bennett said while it was difficult to accurately pinpoint the number of people who were currently homeless, the most recent data available revealed that there were more than 600 people living rough in the wider Bundaberg region.
“Homelessness is a very serious issue in Australia-wide, and sadly Bundaberg is no exception,” he said.
“Homelessness is not a choice and can be the result of many social and economic factors, such as domestic violence, addictions, physical or mental health and loss of employment.
“I welcome progress on additional supported accommodation in Bundaberg, with construction of a 2×2 bedroom Duplex set to commence in Marks Street.”
Mr Bennet applauded other local businesses for participating in the Breakfast Stop initiative, including Coral Coast Dental, which has donated preventative oral health care packages to be distributed on the day.
Roots Hair salon will also attend the Breakfast Stop and offer free haircuts to attendees.
“I encourage anyone experiencing difficulties to head on down to see the team at Regional Housing Limited, grab something to eat and chat to the experienced staff,” Mr Bennett said.
The first Breakfast Stop will be held this Wednesday, February 3 from 7am through to 8:30am in the Regional Housing Limited Carpark.
For more information contact Regional Housing Limited on 1300 642 123
February 1, 2016