In solidarity with the homeless, officers from Wollongong Police District have hosted a barbeque in conjunction with Wollongong Homeless Hub. Officers are enjoying bacon and egg rolls alongside the local homeless community, as we type this in.
The event is being held in support of the 2019 Homelessness Week, an annual event that aims to raise awareness of people experiencing homelessness, the issues they face and the action needed to achieve enduring solutions.
The 2019 event runs from 4-10 August with the theme ‘Housing ends Homelessness’.
Wollongong Police District Commander, Superintendent Chris Craner said people who experience homelessness are valuable members of the community.
“As police we often see homeless people who have come from impossible situations, and just need that extra helping hand to get them back on track and into housing and employment,” Supt Craner said.
“We know there isn’t a one-size-fits all solution to address the issue, and we hope that at a district level we can show our local homeless community that police are a friendly face.”
Wollongong Homeless Hub General Manager Mandy Booker welcomed the opportunity to engage tenants in positive interactions and demonstrate that community safety can be achieved by working together.
“Breaking the stigma that is associated with homelessness is important and means that people are not shamed or embarrassed when seeking help; events like today’s BBQ aim to do just that,” Ms Booker said.
