Castlemaine Secondary College, in partnership with Dhelkaya Health, HALT and Goldfields Local Learning and Employment Network, has devised an innovative way to assist families facing homelessness in the Mount Alexander Shire, while simultaneously developing study skills and aspirations in the construction industry.
The project will result in the provision of two refurbished caravans by May 2023 to help tackle this priority issue and includes local trades people, suppliers and Year 11 students currently studying the Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning Certificate. Work on the caravans is due to begin on 7th November.
The project was made possible thanks to Mount Alexander Shire Council’s Round 2 Community Grants which aims to support projects that align with Council’s plans and strategies.
In the Mount Alexander Shire, there are 17 people sleeping rough on any given night. There are 50 plus community members who are couch surfing or staying with friends or family because they have no affordable secure housing, as well as 200 plus families in housing crisis.
“This project will help our homeless community by providing temporary accommodation to families in need,” Castlemaine Secondary College Principal Justin Hird said. “We’re proud of our students and look forward to seeing them develop their skills in support of the community. We’re also thankful for the Community Grant and assistance of local tradespeople and suppliers who have committed to the project.”
Dhelkaya Health CEO Sue Race said ““Homelessness has a deep and lasting impact on people’s health, both mental and physical. It affects every aspect of life, including education and employment opportunities, connection with community and ability to fully participate in society. This project will help many young people and their families each year, local people who’ve found themselves in difficult circumstances, to achieve stability.”
If you are experiencing homelessness or are at risk of homelessness—including experiencing domestic and family violence you can call: 5479 1000, or after hours 1800 825 955.
