This week is National Homelessness Week and according to the Home Hub there are over 60,000households(families or a group of people who share a home)in need of safe and affordable homes in Western Australia.
CommunityREInvestprogram
REIWA and its members have been supporters of The Salvation Army throughthe CommunityREInvestprogram which helps the Salvos deliverservices to clients who may be residing at The Beacon or at Graceville, their domestic violence shelter for women and children.
Overall,our contribution helps the Salvos ensure that these individuals get back on track, access the support they need and regain their independence back in the community.
Homes for good
However,this year REIWAispleased to alsosupportThe Home Hubs Homes for Good initiative which promotes a whole of community response to the housing crisis due to the increased housing needs presented by COVID-19.
REIWA CEO Neville Pozzi said homelessness can happen to anyone, at any time and it is even more prevalent since the pandemic commenced.
Homes for Good enables people with vacant or specialised properties an opportunity to house those in need whether it be on a short or long-term basis, Mr Pozzi said.
Utilising these propertieswhich may not be in use at the moment,will make a big difference to those currently experiencing homelessness.
Looking at the data
A single person on theJobSeekerpayment currently receives$1,115 per fortnight which will reduce to $815 on the 30 September 2020 and downagainto $565 at the end of the year.
Comparedto Perths median rent per week, which is $350 per week,as paymentsreduce,tenants will find it more and more difficult to pay rent as well asaffordthe basics.
One of the key issues for those who are vulnerable in our society is housingand by ensuring those in need have a secure place to live means they can set down the foundations they need to rebuild their lives, Mr Pozzi said.
There are a few ways in which you can assist, whether it is to help provideshort- or long-termsupport and REIWA is encouraging anyone who can help to do so.
How you can help
During this difficult time, theHome Hub platformisasking people toplease register if:
Homes for good:you haveany vacant or available properties, including houses, unused holiday homes, hotel rooms and short-term rental propertiesthat can be leased tothose seekingshelter.
Management capacity:you can help by managingHome Hub propertiesif you areacommunity housing provider, property manager, government department, hotelierorself/private manager.
Need for housing:if you are, or knowanyone,requiring safe accommodation, including seniors, low-income earners, people experiencing or at risk of homelessness, anyone fleeing family anddomestic violence, as well as anyone needing to move or find accommodation as a result of COVID-19.
