Perth: Just outside McIver Train Station in the heart of Perth, the Moore Street Hub has emerged as a vital support centre for the homeless and those in need. Operating Monday to Friday from 5 PM to 8 PM and Sunday mornings from 8 AM to 11 AM, this hub offers essential services, including healthcare, hygiene facilities, and pre-cooked meals.

Over the years, it has transformed from a small operation into a crucial service, aiding hundreds each week. The Hub stands as a testament to the community's commitment to providing compassionate support to vulnerable populations.

The Hub’s strength lies in its dedicated volunteers, like Steph and Darren from Perth Home and Support. Steph describes Tuesday nights and Sunday mornings as the busiest times. “We serve meals, distribute food, and provide services like the Street Doctor and laundry facilities with help from the Red Cross,” she explains, highlighting the collaboration between local organisations. “By the end of the night, we’ve helped so many people,” she adds with pride.

On Sunday mornings, up to 700 individuals gather at the Hub, drawn not only by the hot meals but also by the warmth and kindness of the volunteers. Reflecting on her three years of service, Steph emphasizes that it’s about more than just food: “It’s about kindness, dignity, and being there for people when they need it most.”

Margaret, a volunteer for over eight years with the Sri Sathya Sai International Organization, embodies the motto "Love All, Serve All." Leading a team of more than ten volunteers, she consistently distributes food and goods to those in need. "The more, the merrier," she encourages, inviting others to join in the mission of community support.

The Hub’s outreach is further bolstered by the Missionaries of Charity, an order founded by Mother Teresa. Sister Ruby, a dedicated member, explains their core values: “We emphasize love in action, dedicating our lives to the poor, sick, and abandoned. Following Mother Teresa’s example, we live with humility and simplicity, trusting in God to provide for our needs.”

Every Wednesday evening and Sunday morning, the sisters serve hot dogs, mud cakes, and pies, offering nourishment and compassion to those who need it most. Their presence, along with religious leaders like Fr. Chris, exemplifies the strength of interfaith collaboration at the Hub.

City of Perth Initiatives to Combat Homelessness

In addition to grassroots efforts at Moore Street Hub, the City of Perth has launched several initiatives aimed at tackling homelessness. By collaborating with local organizations and the State Government, these programs provide comprehensive support for the homeless community.

Extended Day Centre Hours: Day centers now operate seven days a week, from 7 AM to 7 PM, ensuring consistent access to food, medical care, and hygiene services.

Safe Night Shelter: A Safe Night Shelter has been established for vulnerable individuals, particularly women, offering a secure space to rest and access critical services throughout the night.

Coordinated Homeless Services: A new framework has been developed to ensure better coordination among shelters, outreach programs, and government bodies, creating a unified approach to address homelessness efficiently.

Assertive Outreach Programs: The City of Perth has initiated Assertive Outreach programs, with teams engaging directly with rough sleepers to help them connect with housing and essential services.

Homelessness Services Accreditation Process (HSAP): The trial HSAP program aims to improve service delivery by accrediting organizations that meet high standards, ensuring effective use of resources.

Collaboration with Moore Street Hub

In partnership with organizations like Moore Street Hub, the City of Perth has expanded its services to provide essential support for the homeless population. This collaboration offers crucial resources such as food, medical care, and laundry facilities, ensuring that individuals can access support with dignity and respect.

Notably, on Wednesday nights and Sunday mornings, the Hub collaborates with Red Cross and Street Doctor 360 to enhance its outreach efforts. Red Cross volunteers assist with food distribution and hygiene services, while Street Doctor 360 provides on-site medical care, addressing the urgent health needs of those in attendance.

This integrated approach not only meets immediate needs but also fosters a sense of community, creating a vital safety net for individuals facing homelessness. Together, these partnerships exemplify a holistic response to the challenges faced by the homeless population in Perth.

State Government Support and Broader Initiatives

Alongside local efforts, the State Government has implemented several initiatives to address homelessness on a larger scale, including:

Djuripiny Mia Program: Aiming to add up to 100 homes to provide permanent housing for rough sleepers.

Wandjoo Bidi: Offering low-barrier accommodation for up to 35 individuals in need of immediate housing.

Housing First Homelessness Initiative: Providing comprehensive support for homeless individuals to rebuild their lives.

A United Effort for a Brighter Future

Perth is making significant strides in addressing homelessness through a collaborative approach that combines local outreach efforts, such as the Moore Street Hub, with government-driven initiatives. Both the City of Perth and the State Government are committed to reducing homelessness by expanding services and increasing housing options, ensuring that no one is left without support or a path to a brighter future.

Community Involvement: A Vital Component of Our Mission

Community involvement is crucial in this mission, inviting families and individuals to visit the Moore Street Hub during operating hours with pre-cooked meals, fruits, packed foods, or clothing. Emphasizing the notion that "the more, the merrier," every contribution nurtures a sense of community and hope for those in need.

Together, we can cultivate a supportive environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, reinforcing the belief that collective effort can make a meaningful difference in the lives of vulnerable individuals.