Pictured: Suzi (left), talented volunteer hairdresser, and Kellie (right) Homeless United Leader.
With the housing and homelessness crisis worsening, Neighbourhood Centres continue to be on the front line, with 38% of Neighbourhood Centres specifically offering homelessness services and 20% providing housing, rental or homestay services in 2024.
Alongside these services, many Centres also offer a variety of supports for those experiencing homelessness, such as food relief, distribution of tents, swags and essential items, free haircuts, community lunches, device charging stations, assistance with housing applications and so much more.
A powerful example of this support in action is Redland Community Centre’s Homeless United program. Since 2018, the program has helped house over 1,150 people at risk of, or experiencing, homelessness and helping many more on their journey to stability, reconnection and secure housing.
What began as an unfunded pilot has become a vital service in the Redlands, shaped by collaboration and community kindness. While Homeless United received state government funding for a brief period (March 2020–October 2021), it now operates solely through the dedication of its staff and volunteers, and the generosity of local people and businesses.
Despite limited funding, the Homeless United team at Redland Community Centre continues to expand their support in response to growing community need. Their newest initiatives include:
- Daytime rest space: A safe place to rest for those sleeping rough, along with secure item storage and device charging stations, open during Emergency Relief hours.
- Weekly community brunch: Every Wednesday from 10:30–11:30am, providing a nutritious meal and a supportive space to connect.
- Hair Aid partnership: Free professional haircuts every six weeks, restoring dignity and confidence to those doing it tough.
These services are grounded in Redland Community Centre’s belief that housing alone won’t end homelessness, belonging and holistic support are essential too. The Centre embraces a place-based approach in building the resilience, wellbeing and capacity of those experiencing homelessness and is always looking for ways to expand or better assist those in need.
One participant expressed their gratitude, stating, he has “never been in a happier head space and is so grateful for the caring and ongoing support of the Homeless United Team.” The man, who experiences both physical and mental health conditions was housed with help from the program after being homeless for 2 years.
“You’re the only person who’s really helped me,” another participant recently shared. After repeated cycles of homelessness and temporary hotel stays, they now have a permanent home and a fresh start.
Redland Community Centre is inviting the community to come together and support Homeless United at this year’s There’s No Place Like Home Annual Charity Dinner & Auction on Saturday, 11 October.
Last year’s event raised over $50,000. With demand growing, this year’s goal is even greater.
Written by: Ally Kodet-Moran
Published: August 2025