Forum: Housing and Homelessness
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Stonnington Community Uniting Church continues its tradition of shining a light on social issues that affect the people of Melbourne and more broadly Australia. Homelessness and housing reports appear regularly in the media, but what do we really know about the issue and the people it affects? This forum in East Malvern on November 17th, 2024 draws on the experience of two inspiring people who are making a difference in a real and constructive way.
Issues relating the Homelessness and Housing
Homelessness is not a simple issue. Difficulties around the provision of food, nutrition, cooking facilities, and food storage are relatively evident, but what about clothing, laundering, personal washing, haircuts, warmth, and foot care. The list is very very long. all the time trying to move towards a secure home. What about social connection? This is a tough space.
About this Community Forum
Join us for an enlightening community forum that delves into the deeply connected issues of homelessness and housing insecurity. The forum will provide a unique opportunity to engage with two remarkable leaders who have created impactful organizations that address the diverse needs of the homeless. Their initiatives span a wide spectrum – from distributing essential items like food and clothing to providing crucial support for individuals and families striving to secure permanent housing. Through their stories and experiences, you will gain valuable insights into the multifaceted challenges and innovative solutions surrounding homelessness.
Be inspired to think critically and creatively
This forum will not only inform but also inspire you to think critically and creatively about these complex social issues. You’ll be invited to explore the broader implications of homelessness, considering such questions as: How do we, as individuals and as a community, contribute to sustainable solutions? What new approaches can we adopt to make a meaningful difference? This is a chance to expand your understanding and reflect on the role each of us can play in addressing this pressing concern.
Active engagement
We encourage all participants to actively engage with our speakers by posing challenging questions and offering thoughtful comments. Your voice is crucial in this dialogue, and we welcome diverse perspectives as we work together to uncover effective strategies and foster a stronger, more compassionate community.
The Speakers
Ms Deborah Holmes, Director, Avalon Centre, Malvern East 
Deborah Holmes founded the Avalon Centre in 1987. “Our aim is to meet the unmet needs in society and help people who have slipped through the cracks. Avalon assists those who have been forgotten, overlooked and left behind. This includes the homeless, people with mental health and physical problems and disabilities, the elderly, refugees and anyone else who may benefit from our support. Avalon Services include Homes for the Homeless, Avalon Drop-In, and Clothes & Bedding Distribution, and individual support
Noah Yang, founder and CEO of “We are Mobilise” 
Noah founded the Mobilise movement challenged by the question “In a country as prosperous as Australia, why does anybody have to sleep on the street?”. Since the first night he and a friend headed out with bags of bread to have conversations, Noah has led We Are Mobilise from a grassroots movement focused on assertive outreach through to an ACNC-registered national charity with operations in 5 states across Australia. Mobilise recently completed a $2 million+ fundraising campaign with Nedd Brockmann, positioning it to launch some Australia-first direct giving programs – already having 100+ participants through these innovative programs.
The speakers will exchange ideas with each other, and will welcome challenging questions and comments from all participants.
How to Participate in the Forum
The forum is FREE, and seating is not pre-booked
When and Where is the Community Forum on Housing and Homelessness
Graphic designed by Freepik
- When: Sunday November 17th, 2024
- Time: 3.00 pm – 5.00 pm
- Where: Stonnington Community Uniting Church 85-87 Burke Road, East Malvern
Need more Information?
Have a look at our Calendar or Contact Jane in the Stonnington Community Uniting Church office