Woy Woy Rotary hears about Coast Shelter

Coast Shelter chief executive Mr Michael Starr has addressed the Rotary Club of Woy Woy at a recent online meeting.

Club president Ms Julie Jones said Coast Shelter was a non-profit charity which provided accommodation and support programs for people who were homeless or escaping family or domestic violence across the Central Coast.

"Coast Shelter has been operating for 26 years and provides accommodation to over 200 men, women, families and youth every night."

Coast Shelter also coordinated the provision of over 1000 free meals every week through the Coast Community Centre.

"They have 10 properties across the Coast and house up to 160 people.

"Due to the latest Covid outbreak, the format of their day-to-day running has had to change.

"The meals are still served but must be takeaway.

"The laundry and shower service that they normally provide has had to close.

"The allied health services, visiting specialists and GP clinic have had to stop."

Ms Jones said some of the people that were sleeping rough in stairwells and parks etc have been convinced to move into temporary accommodation.

"These are the communities most vulnerable and so are much safer in accommodation.

"Most people that go to Coast Shelter stay between one and six months.

"The idea is to help them out and help them move on, and to get them on their feet and be independent."

Ms Jones said the club was told the morale at Coast Shelter was high, with programs and workshops still running.

"They are still taking in referrals and all refuges are open, as an essential service.

"They are holding online fitness classes, bingo and cooking challenges.

"There has been generous corporate support over the past six weeks.

"Gosford RSL are preparing 100 meals per day for Coast Shelter and delivering takeaway hampers.

"There are about 200 active volunteers who assist with Coast Shelter.

"One program is driving instruction for homeless youths, which in turn allows them to apply for jobs that require a licence.

"The local Year 11 and 12 students prepare cook and serve at barbecues for the homeless people, which is very much appreciated."

Ms Jones said: "There was much interest from our members, with many questions for Michael.

"When things are back to normal we have been invited to visit for a look at their premises."

SOURCE:

Newsletter, 17 Aug 2021

Julie Jones, Rotary Woy Woy