As Homelessness Week 2024 kicked off on August 5, Health on the Streets (HoTS) announced its continued commitment to addressing the pressing issue of homelessness across the Central Coast.
“This year we are not only raising awareness but also putting a spotlight on tangible solutions and the impactful work being done to support our local homeless population,” a spokesperson said.
On the Central Coast, the proportion of people experiencing homelessness who are aged 55 and over is 17 per cent.
Of the people experiencing homelessness, 19.7 per cent are employed and 29.3 per cent are children and young people.
The spokesperson said 85 per cent of HoTS clients present with a mental health or drug and alcohol concern and there are more than 1,200 people on the Central Coast who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.
Powered by Coast & Country Primary Care, HoTS is a community-driven initiative dedicated to providing critical health services and support to individuals experiencing homelessness.
“Our organisation recognises the unique challenges faced by those living without access to essential healthcare and stable housing,” the spokesperson said.
Coast & Country Primary Care CEO Kathy Beverley said the aim this week was to highlight the critical health needs of the homeless community and showcase how targeted support could make a difference.
“Through our homeless program and community partnerships, we are committed to not only addressing immediate health concerns but also contributing to sustainable improvements in overall wellbeing,” she said.
“Our nurses and peer workers go directly to where the homeless community is based.
“Being able to access treatment for health conditions today, and not allowing the condition to escalate, has an untold flow-on effect for that person and the whole community.
“We’ve grown our team which has allowed us to reach more areas across more days of the week and provide on-the-spot medical care, including comprehensive health check-ups, drug support and much-needed mental health support.
“Our collaboration with local community organisations has strengthened our ability to provide holistic support, including access to social services and housing assistance.
“We are engaging with the broader Central Coast community to encourage volunteers, donations and advocacy to support long-term solutions for the homelessness.
“As we support Homelessness Week 2024, we invite the Central Coast community to join us in making a difference.
“Whether through volunteering, donations or advocacy, your support is invaluable in helping us help more people doing it tough in our local community.”
For more information on how you can contribute or to learn more about Health on the Streets, go to www.healthonthestreets.org.au