With so many people in crisis right now, there has never been a better time to expand support services to make sure people are getting the help they need.
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Uniting Ballarat's Dana Street complex is set for a massive redevelopment to do just that.
The Breezeway community meals program, which has served more than 400,000 hot meals to people in need over 22 years, will soon have a new home, with Ballarat charities and businesses chipping in to make a larger and fully accessible space available.
A SNEAK PEEK INSIDE THE NEW BREEZEWAY:
Existing buildings will be renovated and modernised, and a free laundry will be installed for people sleeping rough or experiencing homelessness.
Uniting Vic.Tas' community services senior manager Cathryn Ryan said the coronavirus crisis had highlighted existing issues.
"We're noticing a lot of people who had casual work who have lost their jobs coming into emergency relief services, we've noticed a lot of people needing food support," she said.
"It's a major concern across the Ballarat region - so it's perfect timing."
She said she was grateful for the support from charities and organisations like SJ Weir and Southern Rural Water, which is donating the accessible bathroom, kitchen, and laundry facilities.
"We want it to be a welcoming and warming space today, where people can feel heard and respected," Ms Ryan said.
"We've got the first part done, all fully accessible - we'll have a lift inside that will bring people up into emergency relief centre.
"There's also a small social enterprise at the front, we want to support people with employment options to break the cycle of homelessness."
In a statement, Fiona Oliver from the Oliver Foundation said the project is an important one.
"We're delighted to be involved with Uniting in Ballarat on such an important project which will make such a difference to our local community," she said.
The Alfredton Rotary Club successfully submitted the Breezeway upgrade to the Pick My Project initiative - founding member Deb Robertson said in a statement having a community centre with extra capacity is crucial for Ballarat.
IN THE NEWS:
"Whether it's a simple as providing a hot meal and someone to talk to or supporting people with accommodation options, the new Breezeway will improve the lives of so many local people doing it tough," she said.
The new Breezeway, on the corner of Dana Street and Albert Street, is expected to open in August.
Anyone interested in volunteering, or donating, is urged to get in touch.
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