$1.4M for South West Qld homelessness and family services

Communities Minister Lindy Nelson-Carr has announced $1.44 million over three years for homeless shelters, crisis accommodation and drug and alcohol prevention services in the Toowoomba, Darling Downs and South West Queensland regions.

Ms Nelson-Carr said the funding would provide much-needed support to people at risk of becoming homeless and give them a helping hand to get their lives back on track.

State Member of Parliament for Toowoomba North Kerry Shine welcomed the funding, with services to help local residents in need.

“The Salvation Army’s Toowoomba Crisis Accommodation Service will receive $310,305 per annum over three years to support homeless people, including single men, and women and their children escaping domestic violence,” Mr Shine said.

“Last year this service helped more than 200 people experiencing homelessness, with support averaging 75 days for these clients.”

Mr Shine also welcomed funding of $63,044 per annum for the next three years for DRUG ARM’s Family Support program in Toowoomba to help vulnerable families with children aged up to 18 years.

“This program helps families affected by alcohol and drug misuse,” he said.

“It works with individual family members to build self-esteem, self-awareness, self confidence, and provides assistance in resolving family tension and breakdown.”

In addition, Minister Nelson-Carr announced the Housing Roma Service, run by the Roma Regional Council, would receive $108,996 per year for three years for its supported accommodation, including 10 housing units.

“In just six months, the Housing Roma Service has responded to almost 120 requests for crisis accommodation,” she said.

Ms Nelson-Carr said all three organisations had a strong track record in providing family support and homelessness support services.

“It’s important Queenslanders know they can rely on local organisations to support and protect them and, in some cases, to put a roof over their head.”

Media Contact:
Minister Nelson-Carr’s office 3235 4280
Mr Shine’s office 4638 5755