By Callum Ludwig
A new grant is set to bolster the staffing of Stable One’s Winter Shelter Network this year.
Stable One is a recipient of one of the latest round of the Sisters of Charity Foundation’s 83 Community Grants and will be putting the money towards funding a dedicated Welfare Coordinator for the Yarra Valley Winter Shelter.
Stable One chief executive Katherine Kirkwood said while they know that the unconditional positive regard guests experience at the shelter can and does change lives, this year they are taking a further step to empower their guests towards lasting stability.
“Stable One has long advocated for the inclusion of a Welfare Coordinator or Case Manager in shelter projects, recognising the transformative impact this role can have, this was demonstrated by one of our Network affiliates, Winter Shelter Toowoomba, who saw significant positive outcomes in housing, health, and employment for their guests after engaging a Welfare Coordinator last year,” she said.
“This trained professional will work closely with guests, offering guidance and practical support to help them navigate their unique challenges, by providing this additional layer of care, we hope to empower guests to take meaningful steps towards sustainable health and housing solutions.”
The Sisters of Charity Foundation has been operating since 1838 in Australia, offering support and financial assistance for ‘community initiatives that will benefit poor and marginalised people.’
Ms Kirkwood said they are incredibly grateful to the Sisters of Charity Foundation and the good folk of Lilydale Uniting Church, whose generous support has made this initiative possible.
“We are thrilled to now say that the role is fully funded, their investment in this vital aspect of our shelter will enable us to make an even greater impact in the lives of those we care for, we look forward to seeing the outcomes that we hope for come to fruition this year,” she said.
“The Yarra Valley Winter Shelter provides overnight crisis accommodation for 25–30 people experiencing homelessness in the Yarra Valley, partnering with seven local churches, the shelter operates every night during winter, with each church hosting one evening per week,”
“Around 150 volunteers from 30 churches and the wider community contribute by preparing meals, setting up beds, and creating a warm, welcoming environment for guests.”
Stable One, born in the Yarra Valley, opened its first Winter Shelter in the region in June 2017 and has since opened five more; three in Victoria and two in Queensland.
Ms Kirkwood said their goal is to offer more than just a place to stay.
“We aim to provide care, rest, refreshment and a sense of belonging while walking alongside those guests who want support and encouragement towards a stable living situation, however, homelessness is not just a lack of shelter; it is a complex issue with no simple solution,” she said.
“An evaluation of our 2024 program highlighted the increasing challenges our guests face, including severe isolation, trauma and addiction recovery, mental and physical health struggles, employment barriers, and relational difficulties,”
“Our volunteers are an incredible group of dedicated individuals who are passionate about making a difference in their local community, through the training we are able to provide, they learn to create a safe, welcoming space of connection, and they do this exceptionally well. However, as much as they care for and want to support our guests, they are not specialists in the complex challenges many of them face, there is a limit to the assistance they can provide.”
