In a concerted effort to address the growing issue of homelessness in Western Australia, peak bodies and local organizations have launched several initiatives aimed at providing immediate relief and long-term solutions. With over 9,000 people experiencing homelessness in WA, the collaboration between Foodbank WA, the City of Canning, and Shelter WA highlights the community’s commitment to supporting those in need. These efforts include food drives, blanket distributions, and advocacy for policy changes to ensure housing stability and affordability.
Community Initiatives Provide Immediate Relief
Foodbank WA, in partnership with the City of Canning, has been at the forefront of providing essential support to the homeless. During Homelessness Week 2024, the organizations hosted a Foodbank Drive, collecting over 1,000 kg of food and essential items. This initiative, now in its third year, demonstrates the strong commitment of Canning residents to helping those in need. Additionally, the city has distributed over 500 blankets and sleeping bags through two Winter Blanket Drives, ensuring that the homeless have access to basic necessities during the colder months.
The City of Canning has also implemented key initiatives to address homelessness. These include the Freo Street Doctor service and support hubs in Bentley and Cannington, which provide medical care and other essential services to the homeless. The city’s new Homelessness Action Plan, which focuses on connecting, supporting, and advocating for the homeless, is currently open for public comment. Mayor Patrick Hall emphasized the importance of a flexible plan that can adapt to emerging community needs, ensuring that initiatives remain impactful and relevant.
Advocacy for Policy Changes
Shelter WA, the peak body for community housing and homelessness, is calling for immediate action from the government to address the systemic causes of homelessness. The organization has proposed several measures, including the rapid introduction of 2,000 granny flats and tiny homes on government land, expanding support services, and reforming rental laws to end no-grounds evictions. These measures aim to increase the supply of affordable rental housing and regulate short-term rentals, which currently exceed private rentals in the state.
Shelter WA CEO Kath Snell highlighted the urgency of these actions during Homelessness Week, noting that while the State government has committed to many goals required to end homelessness, greater progress is needed from both sides and levels of government. Snell emphasized that ending and preventing homelessness is within reach, but it requires actions that match the goals and a sense of urgency from leaders.
Community Engagement and Future Plans
The efforts to combat homelessness in WA are not limited to immediate relief and policy advocacy. Community engagement plays a crucial role in these initiatives. The City of Canning’s Homelessness Action Plan encourages residents to participate in the discussion and provide feedback on the proposed measures. This inclusive approach ensures that the voices of those affected by homelessness are heard and considered in the decision-making process.
Looking ahead, the collaboration between peak bodies, local organizations, and the community is expected to continue growing. The focus will remain on providing immediate support to those in need while advocating for long-term solutions to address the root causes of homelessness. By working together, the community can make significant strides towards ending homelessness in WA and ensuring that everyone has access to safe and stable housing.
