Since it’s opening in late May, the Safe Night Space for women trial has provided a secure and warm shelter on more than 640 occasions.
While the Safe Night Shelter for men trial has been accessed on 65 occasions in its initial two weeks since opening in mid-July.
City of Perth Lord Mayor Basil Zempilas said the City was committed to taking a lead role to find interim solutions to support people sleeping on the streets of Perth while the State Government’s strategy to end homelessness comes into effect.
“This week is Homelessness Week 2021, themed Everybody Needs a Home. While the responsibility for funding homeless services is primarily that of the State and Federal Governments, the City of Perth recognises that people in our community need support now and this is an issue we feel extremely passionately about,” Lord Mayor Basil Zempilas said.
“Through our safe night space trials, we are providing two facilities for people experiencing homelessness to shelter from the weather, rest and connect to other services. This trial has also been an opportunity to demonstrate to State Government that there are various ways to address homelessness.”
Over the past 18-months, the City of Perth has invested over $3.7 million in homelessness initiatives.
These include expanding culturally appropriate assertive outreach services, establishing two safe night facilities and the coordination of homelessness service providers and goodwill groups to operate within the City of Perth from the Moore Street service delivery site.
The Moore Street site was recently redeveloped by the City and the Public Transport Authority. New facilities include three permanent structures to provide shade and protection from the elements, additional trees, seating, CCTV and lighting.
On average, between 80 to 150 people visit the Moore Street site every day to access food, health, hygiene and assertive outreach services.
“On behalf of the City of Perth, I extend a thank you to all the goodwill groups, volunteers and homeless service providers who are dedicated to delivering services and support for people experiencing homelessness,” Lord Mayor Basil Zempilas concluded.
“The City is committed to continuing to work alongside you and supporting the State Government further to end homelessness.”
ENDS
Issued by: Hannah Marcuson, Media and Public Affairs Advisor, Hannah.marcuson@cityofperth.wa.gov.au, 0417 228 103
The City of Perth acknowledges the Whadjuk Nyoongar people as the Traditional Owners of the lands and waters where Perth city is situated today, and pay our respect to Elders past and present.
