Connection Week assists vulnerable people living on Midland’s streets

Published on 24 May 2019

The City of Swan has partnered with Indigo Junction for Midland’s first Connection Week, as part of an initiative designed to identify the most vulnerable rough sleepers in the community and connect them to support.

Connections Week Midland aims to identify and address the needs of people experiencing homelessness in Midland and surrounding suburbs.

Trained volunteers, including City of Swan staff, went out on Wednesday, May 22 talking to people about the support they need.

Following these conversations, a report will be prepared on the key findings to help connect people to services, inform future service delivery and help to attract much needed resources for homelessness services.

Indigo Junction CEO Adele Stewart said about 8,300 people across the country sleep on the streets most nights.

“Connections Week is about finding out what that looks like in Midland,” she said.

“The information collected will be used to develop tailored solutions for individuals and families

“Our community service, Karnany Resource Centre is experiencing an overwhelming demand for support. We are seeing more than triple the number of individuals and families who are experiencing homelessness than the same time last year.”

City of Swan Mayor David Lucas said the City is committed to supporting the vulnerable people in the community.

“We are grateful to Indigo Junction for their efforts to find people a permanent pathway out of homelessness,” he said.

Midland/Guildford Ward Councillor Ian Johnson thanked the volunteers for contributing their time to this important initiative.

“It’s important to acknowledge that life can present unique challenges for many people, and volunteering is a great way to help out,” he said.

Want to find out how to make a difference in your community? Go to www.swan.wa.gov.au/volunteering for more information about volunteer opportunities and how to get involved.