A place to feel safe, seen and supported
Sometimes when you are facing hardship, the most powerful support is simply having someone to talk to that you can trust. For one local community member, that support comes through the St Agnes’ Community Centre.
He first attended the centre two years ago, during a difficult period in his life when he was experiencing homelessness and unsure where to turn.
While living without stable accommodation, he was able to visit the centre on Horton Street for a warm shower, clean clothes and a hot meal. But just as importantly, he found a place where he felt safe, respected and able to speak openly.
He described the centre as a “safe space” where he could talk in confidence and feel supported without judgement.
“This place has really helped,” he said.
“That feeling of being fresh in the morning – you can fix yourself up and you feel ready, and you can attack anything.”
With that support behind him, he was able to complete a course at TAFE, gaining new skills in transport, warehousing and logistics.
He has since secured stable housing but continues to visit the Community Centre – not only for connection, but to support others who may be facing similar challenges.
He considers himself to have a positive outlook on life but knows many vulnerable people may feel hesitant to seek help because they fear being judged.
For him, understanding homelessness starts with compassion.
“The understanding comes from not being judgemental,” he said.
“Once people aren’t judgemental and look past these problems, you’ll see good people.”
Looking ahead, he hopes to use his qualifications to return to work. In the meantime, he continues to enjoy life’s simple pleasures – fishing, cycling and spending time in nature.
A sense of trust is at the heart of the St Agnes’ Community Centre, which provides a safe and welcoming place for people to return to when they need support.
Over time, the Community Centre has grown into a vital local service, offering food, showers, laundry facilities and connections to support services. That growth reflects a long-standing commitment to responding to community need and working alongside local organisations to provide coordinated care.
Read more about the community centre.
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