HOMELESSNESS

Homelessness represents more than a lack of a home. It is the lack of security, of safety, of opportunity as well as a lack of support.

​

People suffering from homelessness are 2-5 times more likely to die prematurely and seven times more likely to suffer from depression.

​

Many have become homeless by escaping abuse and this is the leading cause of homelessness for women and children of middle – upper income families.

During the last census (2016) it was discovered that 116,427 Australians were living without a home. That is 1 in every 200 of our people suffering from homelessness.

​

Our state of NSW has the largest rising population of people suffering from homelessness with an increase of 37% in five years.

​

Within the state, we currently have the 15th largest homeless population and, like everywhere else it seems, this has steadily been growing.

The simple fact is that there is currently not enough support for those suffering from homelessness. Housing, health and supplies are being given by some truly amazing groups, but they rely on the community to pitch in.

One of the major issues with fighting a problem like homelessness is the lack of data. Most of the statistics we have are from four years ago, and when it comes to the homeless the census is not always a reliable yardstick.

​

At PatchWorks, we want to help bring Newcastle to the leading edge of fighting homelessness so that no one has to suffer from a lack of basic needs.