Reach Homeless Services finds permanent home at Salvation Army Hamilton centre
City of Newcastle(City of Newcastle)
Newy 87.8 FM – People experiencing homelessness can now access food and vital services at a new safe space in Hamilton, following a collaboration between City of Newcastle and two charitable organisations.
The Salvation Army's Community Centre in Cleary Street has become a permanent home for Reach Homeless Services, with volunteers setting up every morning and on Friday evenings to offer food, connection and necessities.
After 12 years operating in various public locations in Hamilton, including James Street Plaza and Hamilton Station Park, Reach now has dedicated access to a kitchen, storage, tables and chairs. The space is also used by volunteers to pack emergency food and hygiene kits, and breakfast packs.
City of Newcastle provided the Salvation Army with specialist planning advice to assist with the development application for the new arrangement.
Councillor Jenny Barrie, who coordinated the initial meetings between Reach and the Salvation Army, said the Council had committed to reviewing free food supply services in Hamilton, noting food insecurity affects one in three households across NSW.
Reach Executive Director Gary Parsisson said the cost-of-living crisis has led to an increase in people doing it tough, and that a permanent location allows the service to operate in any weather.
Salvation Army Corps Officer Major Leanne Bennett said the arrangement complements other services hosted at Cleary Street, including Street Side Medics and Orange Sky.
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