Centacare Kimberley and Aboriginal Family Legal Services host Homelessness Week event in Broome

For those who don’t have a roof over their head or access to basic human necessities, having your hair brushed while eating a warm meal can feel pretty special. On August 9, not-for-profit organisation Centacare Kimberley and Aboriginal Family Legal Services hosted a morning tea for Homelessness Week, setting up stalls and services for those living rough or needing assistance with accessing the best support. Staff and volunteers spent the morning preparing and cooking food for attendees, putting on a smorgasbord of fresh fruit, hot meals, and refreshments. Attendees could sit and relax as they got their hair and nails done, or make colourful beaded jewellery to wear for their picture at the photo booth set-up. Broome-based youth worker Patu Edwards extended his barber skills from children at Broome PCYC to the clients at Centacare, offering free haircuts and shaves to men who aren’t able to access the service often. Housing support co-ordinator Samantha Aldridge said she was happy to see the turnout at the event and everyone getting involved. “I think this is good for people’s wellbeing and it gets them to mix with other people in the community because homelessness can be quite lonely,” she said. Attendees were also able to access shower facilities, have holistic health checks and vaccinations by staff from Broome Regional Aboriginal Medical Service, and learn more information on resources from organisations such as Kimberley Community Legal Services. Housing support worker Paula Clayton said the day allowed those attending to have fun and hopes people can be more understanding of the homeless community. “It can happen to any of us, it doesn’t matter where you come from, especially in this social and economic situation with housing, especially in Broome,” she said. “Today is about celebrating our clients and letting them have a fun day to do some activities and see all the services provided.” Australian Bureau of Statistics data estimated more than 120,000 Australians were homeless during the 2021 census, according to the Eliminating Homelessness Report. Acknowledging the 2023 theme It’s Time to End Homelessness, support worker Ishana Midd said the event was an opportunity for everyone to come together and learn about preventing homelessness. “To prevent homelessness, we need housing,” she said. “We need somewhere suitable and safe for everyone.”