Help for homeless

The Lions Club of Corio Norlane is supporting a program aimed at raising awareness of homelessness, while at the same time supporting people experiencing homelessness in the community.

The Lions club has joined the Barwon South West Homeless Network, which is running a Homeless Awareness Campaign until October.

The Road Home aims to raise awareness about homelessness. It is also offering practical help by collecting items such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, deodorant, sunscreen, hair brushes, wet wipes, tissues, socks and underwear, female hygiene items, bedding and linen.

On any given night, more than 105,000 Australians are experiencing homelessness, of these almost 45 per cent are under 25 years of age.

Issues facing these vulnerable people include no secure place to call home, personal security, obtaining and storing food, hygiene issues, loss of relationships, limited access to education, banking and communication devices. They are also more likely to suffer chronic illnesses and mental health issues.

Lions Club of Corio Norlane Secretary Richard Walter said: “It is up to all of us as a society to change this situation. We will be holding events during the year.

“You can support this campaign in many ways, please try one:

  • Organising a sleep out in the park, in your car, on your couch or in the office.
  • Collecting money (a collection tin can be provided).
  • Collecting hygiene items, bedding and linen (a bin can be provided).
  • Get local community, friends and neighbours involved.
  • Five-day Food Challenge.
  • An Awareness Dinner.

You can contact us on [email protected] or through the website at www.theroadhome.net.au where you can find links information that you can use.”