The Easter period embraces two powerful reminders of the foundations of the Christian faith – profound loss and resurrection or new life.

These two themes are writ large in the life of Uniting. We look to offer hope and create real change for people who face the challenging of circumstances.

Whether Easter is a part of your tradition or not, I hope you have the opportunity to spend quality time with family and friends.

Paul Linossier
Chief Executive Office

The great success of our 2018 Christmas appeals was thanks to you, our generous and compassionate supporters, and the wider community.

Close to 50 tonnes of non-perishable food and essentials were donated to Food For Families in the lead up to Christmas, and our Christmas Share Appeal raised over $300,000 to help people in crisis, well above our goal.

More children were able to enjoy Christmas with 2,500 gifts donated across Victoria and Tasmania through the Target UnitingCare Christmas Appeal. The purchase of our charity Christmas cards also provided significant support. A new card catalogue will be available this year, so look out for details in our 2019 spring newsletter.

As government funding is limited compared to the demand we face every day, we rely on your kindness and heartfelt giving to support people experiencing crisis in our community. We’d once again like to extend a sincere thank you to everyone who supported us in 2018.

Thank you from Sandra

Thank you to everyone who reached out to Sandra and her granddaughters over the festive season to wish them well. Sandra kindly shared her story to support our Christmas fundraising activities. It was uplifting for Sandra and her granddaughters to know that people were thinking of them. We have passed on your letters to Sandra.

“I can’t thank people enough for their support,” Sandra said.

“The help I received over Christmas meant I could put food on the table and buy some small gifts for the girls. To everyone who donated, thank you. You are so kind and it means a lot to us.”

Young people at risk of, or experiencing crisis and instability can remain connected to their community and enjoy a good meal through the Meals for Change program in Ballarat.

Made possible through our partnership with more than 20 community agencies, and nine cafés in the local area, Meals for Change enables members to purchase nutritious meals at a subsidised price.

The program is available to people like Dan, who has experienced homelessness on and off for a number of years. Dan says the program has made
a big difference to his life.

Dan uses his membership card during times of hardship and chooses wholesome meal options from a range of cafés, with staff who welcome him and ensure he feels comfortable. It’s not unusual for a Meals for Change meal to be the only substantial food he eats all day. He can also offer the same deal to a friend or family member, which helps to keep him connected to the people who matter most to him.

Meals for Change coordinator, Jen Pollard, said the program is about more than just providing affordable meals to those in crisis. Meals for Change receives no government funding, relying solely on grants and the generosity of the local community. Over the last three years, donations in partner cafés have raised close to $15,000. These funds go towards providing more than 400 meals.

Young people can access the program through referral by their support worker.

“Most importantly, we give them a sense of community and belonging. They know they are safe and welcome, which is something we often take for granted,”

“People in the program can also get support to pursue education and training opportunities that help them find work and stability,” Jen said.

Partner cafés proudly display the Meals for Change logo in their windows to show their support for some of Ballarat’s most vulnerable young people.

Michelle is one of the 93% of Victorian parents who believe early learning is crucial to a child’s development. 

Last year, the mother-of-four received 15 hours per week of subsidised early learning for her four year-old daughter, Indiana.

But she didn’t receive support for her youngest child, Abbey, to attend three-year-old early learning for five hours a week. Michelle wanted Abbey to socialise with other children and learn how to take instructions from teachers. She admits sending Abbey to three-year-old early learning had a significant impact on the family budget. “We spent $3,600 on early learning fees last year for Indiana and Abbey. It definitely put a strain on our budget,” Michelle said.

We know that early learning works. Children who have enjoyed two years of early learning before they go to school will experience better outcomes over the course of their lives.

They get a better start at school, they are more likely to complete high school, and more likely to go on to further education. As adults, they are more likely to be employed, they will have higher earning potential and they are less likely to have a criminal record.

Despite missing out on subsidised three-year-old early learning for Abbey, Michelle is happy to see new early learning funding introduced. “I’m just glad that all families will have better access to three-year-old early learning now,” she said.

“We all want to do what we can to see our kids succeed, and I think this funding will give our children the best start possible.”

Accessing the right support can be challenging for people facing financial hardship, family violence, health concerns, housing or employment issues.

To ease the burden, we’ve partnered with community agencies, government, utilities, and financial service providers to develop the CareRing program.

CareRing supports the customers of Yarra Valley Water, NAB, ANZ, Suncorp, Jemena, Energy Australia, and Origin Energy. Our partners refer eligible customers to CareRing to better assess and respond to their needs. Issues often come to light when a customer is struggling to pay a bill or make repayments due to financial hardship.

Since its inception in 2014, CareRing has helped over 8,000 people across Australia, like Leo. Leo was unemployed and living in his car, when he was referred to CareRing by one of his service providers.

Leo owned his own business and had never been in financial hardship. He unexpectedly experienced a downturn in work and was ultimately forced to close his business, leaving him without an income.

Leo sold his investment property to improve his cashflow, but nine months later and still without work, used the last of his savings to pay for family funerals. Leo was then forced to sell his home to stay afloat. One year after his business closed, when referred to CareRing, Leo was unemployed and living in his car. One of our client support team organised emergency relief, liaised with a Centrelink social worker to provide payments and arranged a financial counselling appointment for Leo. We also liaised with a partner agency regarding housing options for Leo.

The CareRing team remained in contact with Leo and the other supporting agencies until his life had stabilised. Leo found housing and secured employment, which enabled him to start rebuilding his life.

The Federal Minister for Families and Social Services, the Hon. Paul Fletcher MP, today notified the Uniting Church in Australia that the Church has met the requirements to take part in the National Redress Scheme for people who experienced institutional child sexual abuse.

A number of our founding agencies provided out-of-home care and still do today. Anyone who was in their care as a child and experienced sexual abuse can apply to the National Redress Scheme, either via their website or by calling the toll-free number 1800 737 377.

Here at Uniting Vic.Tas, we offer a Heritage Service which supports people who spent some or all of their childhood in out-of-home care services provided by the Uniting Church in Victoria, as well as their family members.

The ongoing bushfires in Eastern Victoria are affecting some of our services in that region. Due to a Watch and Act alert, the following services will be closed on 6 March and until the alert is lifted:

• ​​​​​​​Heyfield Kindergarten
• Maffra Queen Street kindergarten and occasional care
• Glassford Kindergarten
• Stratford kindergarten
• Briagolong kindergarten
• Family Day Care educators in Wellington Shire

Please contact your local office if you need more information.

Our thoughts are with all those affected by and tackling these bushfires.

A registered Australian Disability Enterprise (ADE) employing more than 30 people, the talented team at Fire & Clay produce an array of handcrafted pottery and ceramic garden products.

Walking into the factory shop at Fire & Clay’s Lilydale HQ, you find yourself surrounded by hanging birds, mandalas and bird baths. These are just some of the range of products developed by the talented team at Fire & Clay. This registered Australian Disability Enterprise employs more than 30 people with intellectual, neurological and physical disabilities. Over the last year, the team have also created their own line of labelled herb sticks, perfect for identifying herbs in your indoor and outdoor pot plants or herb gardens.

Their work is growing in popularity, but it’s what is happening behind the scenes that is its own success story, for Fire & Clay workers and their customers alike.

Dean, a supported employee at Fire & Clay since August 2012, values the opportunities for learning and engagement most of all. “When I started, I didn’t have a background in pottery, so Fire & Clay has also been a place for me to learn that.”

“And I love that I get out of the house!” adds Dean. “I want to be doing something and to be connecting with other people.”

For Helen who has worked at Fire & Clay since 2011, she looks forward to having the chance to be creative and to work alongside others.

“I love the team,” states a smiling Helen. “The people are just beautiful. I love to make the pots with the swirls on them, and lots of beads and herb sticks.”

When ill health meant Nick could no longer continue working in the car trade, he didn’t know what he was going to do.

“Being here at Fire & Clay, it gives me that purpose again,” says Nick. “It’s a place that just lifts your spirits, and gives you a whole family of people in the process!”

Over the last 8 years with Fire & Clay, Adrian has made and painted a variety of products, but what he enjoys most are the friendships he has made along the way.

“Fire & Clay has great people,” shared Adrian. “I enjoy their company and we are always willing to help each other out in different ways.”

Monica has been a supported employee at Fire & Clay for more than 12 years. While completing a TAFE course, Monica’s teacher recommended she do her work experience placement with Fire and Clay.

“I just really enjoyed it, and I think my supervisor at Fire and Clay noticed that, and asked me to stay on as an employee! I’m so glad they did.”

When asked what her favourite things about Fire & Clay were, Monica laughed, exclaiming, “How can I answer that question with just one thing! There are just so many good things! The people, the tasks, the singing we do. I love it all.”

Along with the products John has been making at Fire & Clay over the last five years, he is proudest of his creative pursuits.

“Our Fire & Clay warehouse is connected to an Art Studio, and I’ve loved making various mugs and vases there. It’s great to have that opportunity, as well as learning the pottery craft.

“Our supervisors are fantastic, and very supportive too. We’re a tight-knit team here, and this has been a great program to keep us in the workforce.”

“Our mission is to give our workers the chance for meaningful employment,” says Sue Gannon, Manager of Disability Community Options at Uniting Wesley. “We give them the opportunity to socialise and engage with others, while also helping to empower them through economic and personal independence. What matters most to us, is that they are given the dignity they deserve as important members of our community.”

You can view the range of Fire & Clay products at their showroom in Lilydale.

This week saw the start of a new partnership with Swinburne University of Technology. Professor Erin Wilson has taken up her appointment as the Uniting Kildonan Chair in Community Services Innovation in the Centre for Social Impact (CSI) at Swinburne. 

Professor Wilson will lead a high quality, high impact research program in social innovation and community services. She brings a wealth of knowledge and experience, having previously worked in the areas of disability and inclusion and Indigenous community management and development.

In addition to Prof Wilson’s position, the partnership will support post-doctoral and doctoral research candidates committed to a shared research program in community services innovation.

Our Chief Executive Officer, Paul Linossier said that by establishing this chair, Uniting Vic.Tas is delivering on its strategic ambition to base its work on evidence.

“This new position and program come at a time of major change for our sector. Consumer-directed care means people will have more control over the services they access. We need high-quality research to inform the future shape of our services and to ensure good life outcomes for the people we work with.

“Professor Wilson understands well the challenges to community services of short term and limited funding, high workloads and ongoing systemic change. Her team will tackle issues such as the vicious cycle of poverty, disability and substance dependency.”

Professor Jo Barraket, Director of CSI Swinburne said that she was delighted to welcome Professor Wilson to the CSI team in this newly created role. “We’re thrilled to welcome Erin to the team and to partner with Uniting in this way.

“The Uniting-Swinburne partnership builds on past collaborations between CSI Swinburne and Uniting Care agencies, in which we have realised the practical benefits of integrating leading edge research with the service design challenges facing Uniting and the communities it serves. This partnership has been embraced by the wider University, with Swinburne making a substantial investment in the research program. Erin is exactly the kind of high impact scholar needed to realise our ambitious shared agenda.”

Professor Kristy Muir, CEO of CSI agreed, “The overall aim of this program is to create generational benefits to society. It is a research-driven initiative to support Uniting services and will be a strategic partnership for systemic change. We look forward to welcoming Erin to the team.”

Professor Wilson said an important outcome of the chair would be training early-career researchers to apply their insights to social problems and create new partnerships for change.

“This role enables me to focus on how to create and embed social change. My interest is to find what works for the benefit of the community. By doing so, community services organisations and governments can focus on ways to better resource effective services and activities in the long term.”

“We can be at the forefront of providing critical support to vulnerable people in our community.”

There’s nothing quite like the excitement of securing your first job—and the experience was no less satisfying for Brad, 27 and Bella, 23. The dynamic duo has been bursting with enthusiasm ever since they began their careers with Telstra.

For almost two years, Brad and Bella have been dedicated and reliable employees at the company’s flagship Melbourne store.

“Getting the call to say I got the job was a very happy feeling for me,” Brad said.

“I told them I was going to do the best I could, and so far, I’ve been keeping my promise.”

Supporting the sales team by stocking shelves with new deliveries and keeping the innovative “touch tables” spotless and ready for interactivity, Brad and Bella are integral to a seamless customer experience.

“I can’t remember a single day when either of them has taken a day off. We always have to tell them to stop working!” said Store Leader Wendy Duff.

Bella says she was thrilled to be given the opportunity, “This is the first time I’ve had to do things on my own,” she said.

Mark is happiest with a guitar in hand, but living with disability and mental illness has made it hard for him to pursue his passion.

Not anymore.

Through the guidance of the Uniting team in Ballarat, Mark receives the support he needs to focus on his music.

“I’ve always loved playing the guitar. It’s my creative outlet and my opportunity to have a voice… a musical voice,” Mark said.

“Setting goals and having something to work towards helps me manage my mental health issues.”

Mark accesses the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).

Through his NDIS plan, Mark has been able to employ an occupational therapist, undertake additional psychology sessions, participate in a ten-week group therapy program, and connect with a song writing program to continue doing what he loves most.

“I couldn’t cope with the scale of the NDIS on my own, so the guidance of my mental health worker from Uniting has been invaluable,” Mark said

“The staff at Uniting always listen to what I have to say. They know I love my music, so they’ve made sure I can access the support I need to continue playing.”

Mark has recorded music for his family and friends, and hopes to share his passion more widely in his local community.

Over the next 16 days we’re joining the global movement to raise awareness of and take action against gender-based violence as part of the 16 Days of Activism campaign.

Running from the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women on 25 November through to World Human Rights Day on 10 December, this campaign calls for action against one of the world’s most persistent violations of human rights – violence against women.

Gender-based violence is the leading cause of death, illness and disability for women aged under 45 in Australia.

The women involved feel the effects in a number of ways – their physical and mental health is likely to suffer and they are much more likely to end up homeless or living in poverty.

You can read more on our website about our advocacy to prevent gender-based violence. To find out more about 16 Days of Activism, visit the UN Women website or follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram.

On 13 November the Coroner’s Court of Victoria delivered its findings in response to the inquest into the death of Patrick McCabe.

Patrick McCabe lived with Wesley Mission Victoria in supported accommodation for people with disability for 16 years. He was much loved by staff, volunteers and the people he lived with. Patrick died while on a supported weekend holiday at Phillip Island on 27 April, 2014. The inquest into his death commenced in 2016.

Wesley Mission Victoria commissioned an independent review in 2014. They didn’t wait for the Coroner’s findings and immediately made changes to the way they planned supported holidays and communicated with families, as well as updating the staff procedures in place. These changes were advised to the Coroner in 2016.

In 2017 Wesley Mission Victoria joined with 23 other entities to form Uniting Vic.Tas.

In response to the findings, Paul Linossier, CEO of Uniting Vic.Tas said:

“Our thoughts continue to be with the McCabe family and we extend our deepest sympathies for their loss.”

 “We want to ensure we provide the best quality care, support and opportunities for people with disability and their families. We will continue to provide opportunities for clients to go on holidays, as we believe that everyone deserves to relax and enjoy new experiences.” Mr Linossier added.

“We will take time now to review the Coroner’s findings and review current practice across Uniting with regard to holidays for clients with disability. We will put in place a process of regular review that ensures that the best possible systems are in place to ensure safe and rewarding holiday experiences.”

We need to raise $250,000 by Christmas Eve to ensure families like Sandra and her granddaughters can stay together. Your tax deductible donation will provide the support they need for a better future.

Sandra held the little girl in her arms, fighting to hold back the tears. Being a grandmother was supposed to be full of joy and delight. She could never have imagined that it would be like this – sleeping in the back of a car surrounded by their belongings.

It was only a few months ago that she had brought Lainey* home, full of hope that the little girl’s older sister could join them soon.

But now dreams of holding her family together were in tatters. She had been evicted from her rental home and had nowhere to go.

Across Victoria and Tasmania, people like Sandra are fighting to hold their families together. Donate now to give more than hope this Christmas, providing urgent support in their time of need.

Years of supporting her family

Sandra had fought so hard to be the anchor for her family over the years.

Her son’s ongoing struggle with drug use had led to repeated jail time. When his partner encountered the same issues, the situation grew worse.

When their first daughter, Sasha*, was born, Sandra often looked after the baby when the couple couldn’t. Over the next seven years Sandra did everything she could to balance her full-time work with supporting the young family.

Then Lainey was born. Not long after her first birthday, she was placed in Sandra’s care, and Sasha was sent to an aunt. The family’s separation was painful, but at least she could give Lainey a safer home now.

Sandra had to give up her work to care for Lainey. The huge drop in income was already making things tough before she received the eviction letter. Without a job, there was no hope of finding a private rental house.

Sandra applied for public housing but was knocked back. She had run out of options.

Homeless and afraid

Can you imagine what it must have been like for Sandra – a grandmother in her late 50s, full of grief, suddenly jobless, homeless, and sleeping in a car with an 18-month-old little girl she has committed to caring for?

Sandra was frightened and stressed. She had to be there for her granddaughters. It was essential for them to be together. But without a stable home, Lainey could end up in foster care, and the chances of the girls growing up together could disappear forever.

The thought was devastating. Sandra needed someone to help her, and quickly.

We know that children who can’t live with their parents have much better lives if they get to stay with their brothers and sisters. Your donation today will support people like Sandra across Victoria and Tasmania to keep children together so they get the best start in life.

Help in a time of crisis

In her time of desperation, Sandra turned to Uniting. Soon she was in crisis accommodation, and our team worked with her to find a place to live. “Uniting has been a part of my life ever since,” said Sandra.

Finding a place to live was a great relief, but Sandra still had a huge challenge ahead of her. Without a job and looking after a pre-schooler, she had to survive on a Government allowance, which never seemed to go far enough.

For Sandra, Uniting’s support with crisis accommodation was just the beginning. Being able to rely on financial support and advice, food relief and other material aid has allowed Sandra to focus on building for the future. And she doesn’t have to choose between putting food on the table or the girls’ education and wellbeing.

With this vital support, Sandra was able to stabilise her situation and create a safe home for herself and Lainey.

Across Victoria and Tasmania more than 39% of children who can’t live with their parents are in the care of relatives. We need to wrap our arms around people like Sandra so they can wrap their arms around these children and provide a safe, stable, loving home.

Sisters reunited

Five years ago, the stability Sandra had built meant Sasha was placed in her care full time, bringing the two girls together again. It was such a wonderful moment for Sandra and the girls to finally be in the one home.

Now Sandra, Sasha and Lainey were all together as a family, and with Uniting support, the hope of a better future that included their parents lay ahead of them. Mum and dad could visit them regularly. For a few years, life seemed to be settling down.

But then came a heartbreaking moment.

Sandra and the girls were waiting for their mother to arrive to spend time with them when they got the devastating news: she had died.

The girls were distraught. Sandra had to deal with her own grief and support her granddaughters at the same time.

“Losing their mother has been hard on the girls, especially at such a young age,” Sandra said.

In the midst of all the grief, the pressures of daily survival didn’t go away as Sandra continued do her best to stretch her meagre income to cover all their needs.

Previous christmases had already been tough, but that Christmas was tougher than any before. Thankfully, Sandra had Uniting to walk with her through this greatest of challenges.

Your donation means that Sandra and her grandchildren will celebrate Christmas together this year, and every year. Donate now to ensure families can be together at this special time of year.

A daily struggle to get by

Sandra is now 65. She should be preparing to enjoy her retirement and all the joy and relaxation earned from a lifetime of work.

But she’s not.

Instead, Sandra is constantly struggling to get by as she faithfully raises her two granddaughters to give them the best future possible. She needs our help to do it.

“It’s hard raising two young girls on a government allowance. Most of that is spent on basic living expenses,” Sandra said.

“I want to give the girls the best life I can. They’ve been through a lot in their young lives. They’ve seen things no children should see.”

Sandra knows that Uniting is there to help provide for her granddaughters. She will often rely on the Uniting food pantry to get her through to the next pay day. The fresh bread and vegetables help her to stretch meals further.

“When you’re struggling for money, food is often the first thing to go,” Sandra said.

“If I’m running low on money, I know I can still provide the girls with food thanks to Uniting.”

Support with school fees ensures the girls receive a good education, and help with removalist costs allowed the family to relocate recently to a private rental property.

And, most importantly, the family stays together, giving them the best chance of building a better tomorrow.

“The support is just fantastic. They are always there to help,” she said.

“The staff are like family to the girls and I. It makes life a lot less stressful when you have people you can turn to when times are tough.”

“Uniting is a vital part of my life. Without them, I don’t know where the girls and I would be.”

You can ensure that Sandra and families across Victoria and Tasmania get the support they need to stay together this Christmas, and every Christmas. Your generous donation means these families can build for the future.

It’s been a long journey for Sandra, and many other families in our community find themselves in similar crisis situations that could tear them apart.

Thank you for being there for Sandra and her granddaughters when they need it most. With your ongoing support, Sandra knows that she can keep wrapping her arms around her granddaughters and give Sasha and Lainey the loving home they need.

We need to raise $250,000 by Christmas Eve to keep families together. Your tax deductible donation will give more than hope this Christmas. You’ll be keeping families together.

* Names have been changed.

Horses For Hope is helping humans and horses heal together after facing some of life’s biggest hurdles.

The equine assisted therapy program assists people of all ages who have not successfully engaged or been supported by traditional therapies.

Humans and horses are guided to work together to overcome stress, trauma or challenges in their lives; while each building trust, confidence and resilience.

Many of the horses in the program have experienced trauma and need healing by establishing trusting relationships with humans.

For former Horses For Hope participant turned volunteer Phillipa, the program has changed her life.

“I hardly left the house before I started the Horses For Hope program,” Phillipa said.

“I was going through counselling at the time and was referred to the program to help me open up and talk through my problems.

“It was a bit scary to start with, meeting new people and stepping out of my comfort zone. But as soon as I walked into the yard with the horse, I started to settle in,” she added.

The 27-year-old has battled mental health issues that made it difficult to life a fulfilling life.

“I have confidence to get out of the house and do things now. I didn’t have that confidence before taking part in Horses For Hope,” she said.

“I started off by talking to people about the horses and then found myself opening up about my own problems. It’s definitely helped me to open up and form friendships,” she added.

Earlier this year Phillipa was asked to volunteer with the Horses For Hope program.

She has since undertaken a range of volunteer roles across the program, from bookwork to feeding the horses to continue building her skills and confidence.

While she enjoys communicating with participants and fellow volunteers, Phillipa is quick to point out that the best part of the program is working with the horses.

“The horses have issues just like the people who take part in the program. You know they have been through tough times as well, so you start to form a bond with them,” she said.

“I love giving them cuddles.

“It’s a great program to be part of and it really helps.”

The program also provides leadership, management and team building programs for corporate and community sector organisations.

Horses For Hope is hosting a Spring Open Day at 1.30pm on Sunday 14 October at 840 Ardmona Road, Mooroopna North.

All are welcome to attend.

Each day hundreds of volunteers keep our op shops running to raise vital funds for Uniting services and offer affordable goods to local communities.

This National Op Shop Week, we extend a heartfelt thank you to them for all that they do.

We would also like to acknowledge everyone who supports our op shops by donating and buying goods.

Thank you to each and every one of you.

In the past year, Uniting op shops have raised over $500,000 to support our services around Victoria and Tasmania.

We operate 23 op shops across Victoria and 1 in Tasmania. Close to 600 people volunteer their time to help out in those op shops each year.

The volunteers

For Kathy, volunteering is a way of making the most of her retail skills, while giving back to her community.

Kathy started volunteering at the Yarraville op shop nearly 3 years ago. She says the shop is a treasure trove for bargain hunters.

“People are very generous and donate some unbelievable items to our shop,” she said.

“It’s a great feeling to know that the money we raise in the shop is going to a good cause, and the items we sell often help people who are doing things tough.”

The shoppers

Op shops are often a source of affordable clothing and household goods for people facing financial difficulties.

Sally recently visited our shop in Prahran to buy suitable clothing for a court appearance.

She explained to our volunteer that she had recently been injured in a domestic violence incident, and was staying in temporary accommodation for the duration of her court case.

Our volunteer took into account Sally’s injuries, which made wearing some clothes difficult, while she suggested items for Sally to wear. Together, they found an entire outfit for her court appearance, giving her a much-needed boost of confidence.

Sally was extremely grateful for the help she received, and for the kindness extended to her by our volunteers.

We need more volunteers to keep our op shops open, and to assist people like Sally. If this sounds like something you would like to do, you can find out more here.

In 2016, Esta sought refuge in Australia after fleeing her home in Papua New Guinea, where her violent husband and other community members had put her life at risk. She made the difficult decision to leave her three children in her mother’s care to ensure their safety.

Esta began working in rural Victoria, living on a farm and fruit picking to earn money. When the cost of her living and rental payments became too much, Esta was asked to leave. She had no money, and nowhere to go.

Many asylum seekers are unable to work, access welfare or apply for supported accommodation. For many vulnerable people like Esta, our Asylum Seeker Program can be their only lifeline.

With our support, Esta now has a place to call home and is working towards a brighter future. She is also an active member of the Women’s Group. Every month the Women’s Group brings together over 60 women seeking asylum to be creative, share stories and create new friendships.

“We come together at the Women’s Group, all [from] different countries, and we forget about everything,” she said. “We go out, we eat, we learn about things. It has given me confidence.”

The Asylum Seeker Program is not government funded, and relies on support from the community.

Thank you to the Brunswick Uniting Church Congregation who showed off their best dance moves at their recent Bush Dance and raised over $4100, which will directly support people like Esta.

This story was published as part of our Spring Newsletter 2018. To read the full version please click here

For 10 years, April shared a secure rental home with family members, all of whom live with a disability. In 2010, April and her family were asked to leave their home, beginning eight years of separation and instability.

Despite exhaustive attempts April was unable to secure appropriate housing for her family. We began working alongside April in 2012, supporting her to secure a social housing property in Ballarat. Being able to connect to social supports, like our Breezeway Meals Program, also gives her a chance to be part of a community where people look out for each other, and feel safe.

In August, we were proud to sponsor April to attend the 2018 National Homelessness Conference in Melbourne. Hearing about other people’s experience of homelessness was empowering. April now plans to become more involved in her community, sharing her story to create change.

Across Victoria and Tasmania, increasing numbers of people are calling on us for crisis support. Common causes that drive people into homelessness are family violence or relationship breakdown, poor mental or physical health, problems with drug and alcohol use, the death of a loved one, high costs of renting, financial difficulties and unemployment. This reflects what we see in our services, every day.

We often think of homelessness as people sleeping rough however this makes up just 7% of people experiencing homelessness. It is a significant problem, but only the tip of the iceberg (ABS 2016 Census, 2018).

Some people are living on the streets, while others are couch surfing or sleeping in shelters, cars, temporary accommodation, boarding houses or public dwellings.
You help us provide material aid and other homelessness entry points, as well as case management and integrated wrap-around programs such as private rental assistance and tenancy advice, accommodation options for families, specialist youth support, family reunification, homelessness network support and private rental brokerage services.

Together we need to continue providing short-term crisis solutions while also addressing the root causes of homelessness; ensuring there is adequate affordable housing, and that people are able to access education, employment and healthcare.

This story was published as part of our Spring Newsletter 2018. To read the full version please click here

Today we are celebrating good news for young people in foster and residential care. They will be offered support until the age of 21, thanks to funding announced by the Victorian State Government.

We have been pushing for this important change, both independently and with other organisations through the sector wide Home Stretch campaign.

Becoming an adult is a challenging time. The human brain does not reach full development until the age of 25. On average, young people remain at home to the age of 24, but when young people in state care turn 18, they are forced to live independently.

These young people are often highly vulnerable, with significant experience of abuse, trauma, loss and intergenerational disadvantage. Even if their carers want to continue supporting them, a lack of financial and practical assistance can make that difficult.

There are currently some support schemes in place but still too many of these young people struggle to cope independently at 18. This means that over a third are homeless within a year.  Many end up unemployed, in trouble with the law, or parenting a child before they are ready to do so.

The option to remain in care will open opportunities for these young people. They will be able to finish high school, participate in further education and develop the skills they need for adult life in a safe and supportive environment.

We will work with the Department of Health and Human Services, and other care providers to make such that these extra years of care bring real benefits. They can be to support young people to continue their education, enter the workforce and develop the practical and emotional skills needed for independent living.

Minister for Families and Children Jenny Mikakos has committed $11.6 million over five years to roll out Home Stretch in 2019. The funding covers extending care payments to foster and kinship carers. It will also be used to employ specialised workers to provide tailored support to young people.

The Liberal party has also committed to piloting a Home Stretch program for 70 young people if elected in November, but has not yet indicated that it supports full funding of this initiative.

Victoria will join Tasmania and South Australia in moving towards a better system of care for young people.

Students from North Ringwood Community House have pitched in to create an outdoor haven for fellow youth experiencing crisis.

Community House VCAL students joined forces with the Ringwood Men’s Shed and Rotary Club of Maroondah at the start of this year to provide a much needed make-over of the Uniting Wesley 121 youth refuge garden.

The refuge provides short-term accommodation for 16 to 21 year olds from across Melbourne who are experiencing or are at risk of homelessness.

Young people who attend the refuge find their lives are in crisis for various reasons. The facility offers safe and supportive short-term accommodation while they get their lives back on track.

The refuge is located on a one acre block, which had become overgrown.

When a refuge staff member with ties to the Community House connected the two organisations, the project idea was born.

Students have landscaped the garden areas, painted retaining walls, and installed mosaic tiles to give the outdoor space a splash of colour.

The students also assisted members of the Ringwood Men’s Shed to rebuild the chicken coop, thanks to funding from the Rotary Club of Maroondah.

“The students have embraced the project, and put in a lot of hard work and time to create a youth friendly environment,” Wesley 121 Refuge Senior Youth Worker, Katie Bonney said.

“They take great pride in their work. They know it’s a way to give back to their community and to help people their own age.

“The new garden space will provide a therapeutic space for our clients to sit and reflect, or to interact with others.”

North Ringwood Community House VCAL Co-ordinator Julie Reid said student attendance rates had improved significantly since the project started.

“Our students face a range of barriers in their lives, so this has been a really positive project for them to focus on,” Julie said.

“It has helped to build their confident, resilience and work ethic.”

The new garden was officially opened on Tuesday 18 September.

All children deserve access to quality education that gives them the best start to life.

That’s why we’re calling on political parties to commit to 15-hours a week of fully funded, high-quality early learning for every three-year-old.

Early learning is an essential stepping stone to a better future, especially for children experiencing disadvantage.

At present, children are offered one year of Government-funded four-year-old kindergarten. But two years are better than one.

“Children who attend two years of early learning before starting school are more likely to complete secondary education, have better results in exams, and attend post-secondary education,” said Quinn Pawson, Uniting General Manager for Advocacy and Citizen Engagement.

“Children who are able to access two years of early learning before they start school are better prepared – not just for school, but for the rest of their life. It builds the foundations for future social and economic success.”

Our recent research in Victoria found that 93 per cent of people believe early learning is either important or very important to a child’s development.

But over a third (37%) of the families currently sending their child to early learning before the age of four, reported a major impact on their ability to cover essential costs such as housing, food and utilities.

“Parents understand the importance of early learning, and support the introduction of fully-funded kinder for all three-year-olds,” Quinn said.

“It’s concerning that many children are missing out because the cost is too high. We wouldn’t accept this at a primary school level, and this period of education is equally important.”

We are working hard to advocate for early learning in the lead-up to the Victorian state election in November. This includes meetings with the Government and the Greens, and we are seeking a meeting with the Liberal Party.

To find out more, and read the report, please click here

At Uniting, we believe that affordable, safe and secure housing is an essential human right.

Today we welcome news of the State Government’s new laws to make renting fairer for all Victorians.

Changes to the Residential Tenancies Act will strengthen renters’ rights and better protect vulnerable tenants.

Under the new laws:

• Every rental home will need to meet basic standards, with functioning stoves, heating and deadlocks. Landlords will be required to meet basic safety standards for gas, electricity and smoke alarms.
• Rent increases will be limited to once a year, and bonds capped at four weeks rent.
• Protections for pet owners will be stronger, with residential rental providers only able to refuse the right of a tenant to have a pet by order of the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal.
• Rights of entry and photography when a rental property is being sold will be clarified, as will rules to deal with goods left by a renter at the end of a tenancy.
• To make it quicker for renters to get their bond back, tenants will be able to apply for the release of bond without written consent from their landlord, who will have 14 days to raise a dispute before it is repaid automatically.
• People will be able to terminate rental agreements in situations of family violence.
• Those living in caravan and residential parks will have access to compensation if their park closes.

Uniting has been calling on the State Government to provide a better deal for renters to stop unfair rent increases and evictions, and give all renters the security they need.

“People who come to Uniting for support tell us that a lack of affordable and secure housing directly affects their ability to better their circumstances and build a positive future,” Jesse Dean, Public Policy and Advocacy Manager said.

“We are pleased the new tenancy laws adjust the balance of power between renters and owners, increasing security of tenure and preventing ‘rental bidding’ on properties.”

In her address to parliament last night, Member for Western Metropolitan Region, Rachel Carling- Jenkins MP outlined the importance these new laws bring to people living with a disability, which was raised to her by the Uniting team in Wyndham.

Dr Carling-Jenkins highlighted how the reforms to allow minor modifications to rental properties will allow people living with a disability to make their homes safer and better suited to their individual needs.

These modifications could mean the difference between a person continuing to live independently or having to move into assisted care.

To find out more about what we want the State and Federal Governments to do to ensure everyone has access to affordable, safe and secure housing, click here.

Pick My Project is a Victorian-first community grants initiative, with over $1 million in funding available in each metro and regional area.

You have the opportunity to vote for the three projects you think will best assist your community.

Voting is open until 5pm on Monday 17 September. To register and vote, visit www.pickmyproject.vic.gov.au

Uniting has six projects in the running for Pick My Project funding.

Rural and regional LGBTI youth camp

According to data from leading mental health organisations, LGBTI people experience some of the worst mental health outcomes of all demographics. The LGBTI community has suggested a state-wide gathering will reduce the burden of isolation experienced by many LGBTI youth.

The aim of this project is to deliver a short camp for young LGBTI people to be held in Roses Gap and open to state-wide applications.

Roughly 20% of young people using Headspace Horsham facilities identify as LGBTI, but there are no local events outside the centre that enable LGBTI youth to connect with their peers.

For more details, click here

Providing a pathway from homelessness in Ballarat

The BreezeWay Meals Program serves 64 meals daily without Government funding to Ballarat’s severely disadvantaged. The program has now outgrown its current facilities.

Alfredton Rotary and Uniting Ballarat will create a commercial kitchen and cafe space, relocating the program to a larger, more accessible space.

The new space will provide meals, hospitality skills and training to the community’s most disadvantaged people.

It will also create a secure space for rough-sleepers, with shower and laundry facilities included.

For more details, click here

Grovedale Community Safety, Health and Emergency Relief Project

This project will maintain the health of the Grovedale community by providing all members of the community with access to emergency support when required.

A project worker will be employed in the Grovedale community to ensure people who have emergency needs for food, clothing, household goods and housing receive the support they need.

The project worker will assist people on low incomes to prevent utilities being disconnected and provide no interest loans for medical and dental procedures and equipment.

For more details, click here

Winchelsea and District Community Safety, Health and Emergency Relief Project

This project will maintain the health of the Winchelsea and District community by providing all members of the community with access to emergency support when required.

A project worker will be employed in the Winchelsea and District community to ensure people who have emergency needs for food, clothing, household goods and housing receive the support they need.

The project worker will assist people on low incomes to prevent utilities being disconnected and provide no interest loans for medical and dental procedures and equipment.

For more details, click here

Barwon family budgeting and bill management Project

This project will assist Barwon families to prepare household budgets and meet financial commitments to manage their bills.

Families will be shown how to save smaller sums so that larger than expected bills can be paid.

Families already facing issues with paying bills will be shown how to reduce or manage the debt they have, how to access utility provider hardship grants, and how to negotiate payment plans to repay outstanding amounts.

Problems with larger bills can lead to families experiencing a lack of food and even homelessness as funds that would be used for buying food and paying rent are used to stop legal action or the disconnection of services.

For more details, click here

Barwon Education Expenses Project

This project will address disadvantage in the Barwon region by helping low income families with essential public education costs. Support will be given to primary and secondary students who are at serious risk of non-attendance and disengagement with schooling, family, and community.

Low income families are often forced to choose between providing accommodation and food, or education costs. This project will help cover expenses such as uniforms and text books, or e-book fees to help these students obtain the same quality of education as other students.

For more details, click here

Megan is one of the 12,111 Victorians experiencing crisis and homelessness that we supported in the last financial year.

She is the human face of the housing crisis that is leaving thousands of people across Victoria and Tasmania vulnerable, barely surviving and, in many cases, homeless.

As a single mother with four children, Megan struggled to keep up with all her everyday living costs, let alone school-related payments. It was a challenge to find the money for excursions and stationery, and with four children the family felt the pinch four times over.

School expenses, fees, rent and food were simply too much for a single mother to afford. Megan’s greatest fear became a reality when they were evicted and had nowhere to go.

Fortunately we were able to provide immediate emergency relief and food for Megan and her family. We were also able to secure transitional housing for them, providing stability for Megan to get back on her feet and start rebuilding for the future.

There are thousands of families just like Megan’s who need our support – and we will provide it through our homelessness and emergency relief services across Victoria and Tasmania.

But until we address the underlying causes of the crisis that many people are facing, stories like this will keep being told.

Fixing the problem

The housing market is broken. It has caused a chronic shortage of affordable housing. This has created a homelessness crisis that’s reaching record levels.

Fixing the problem requires all of us to get involved. That is why we’ve joined the Everybody’s Home campaign. We’re working with other organisations across Australia to campaign for change we all know is needed and will make a difference for vulnerable people. We’re asking for Federal and State Governments to:

• Increase public housing levels to 10% of all housing stock
• Develop a national housing strategy for more low-cost rental properties to meet the demand for affordable housing
• Provide a better deal for renters to stop unfair rent increases and evictions, and give all renters the security they need
• Give immediate financial relief to Australians by increasing Commonwealth Rent
• Assistance for those struggling just to get by
• Commit to a plan to end homelessness by 2030
• Make home ownership more achievable to reduce pressure on the private rental market.
• Find out more about what we want State Governments to do to fix the housing crisis.

Read our position paper on Housing and Homelessness in Tasmania.
Read our position paper on Housing and Homelessness in Victoria.

Get involved and make change happen

There are three ways you can make a difference with us.

1. Let’s unite our voices and make a change. Join us in signing the Everybody’s Home petition.
2. Attend one of our Homelessness Week events. Find an event near you.
3. Support our homelessness and crisis services – your donation now will support vulnerable people in our community today.

Where to find support

If you need help with housing or homelessness, call 1800 825 955 (Victoria) or 1800 800 588 (Tasmania) to be connected to a service near you.

If you are experiencing family violence, call 000 if you are in immediate danger, or call 1800 015 188 (Victoria) or 1800 633 937 (Tasmania) to be connected to local services.

Uniting Vic.Tas welcomes news of the Victorian Government’s $17.4 million Family Violence Advisor program. The program will see two family Violence Advisors shorty commence at Uniting’s specialist alcohol and other drug (AOD) service, Uniting ReGen, in their North Eastern and Hume Moreland Catchment areas.

These specialists will work towards developing the capacity of AOD clinicians to work more effectively with those who have experienced family violence and the perpetrators.

“The impact of family violence can be great – and for some, life threatening,” says Manager of the ReGen’s North Melbourne area, Marlyn Gavaghan. “That’s why it’s important we support our clinicians to increase their skills to identify and respond to indicators of family violence.”

“With these new roles, we can increase the skill level of our clinicians, as well as work together with a share-case model of support. With that, we can support our clients and their families better.”

The new Family Violence Advisor program was developed in response to the 2016 Royal Commission into Family Violence, which recommended greater collaboration between AOD, mental health and family violence services.

“As a drug and alcohol service provider, substance issues are the catalyst for approaching our service, which can be associated with mental health issues. In most situations family violence is not disclosed or is underreported.”

To get in contact with Uniting ReGen and learn more about the new service, please call 1800 700 514.

An innovative power saving challenge by power company Jemena has resulted in a generous donation to a Uniting program that helps people facing financial hardship access the right support.

In partnership with the Victorian Government, Jemena introduced an energy saving challenge called Power Changes which was trialed over the summer months. Power Changes is an innovative community program whereby local participants are supported with real time energy data, tips and advice to reduce their household electricity usage.

More than 600 people participated in the trial, and through this, Jemena donated $5000 to our CareRing Program. The Program provides cost-of-living provisions, family violence, employment services and housing support for those in need within the community.

“Unemployment is the main reason people seek our support,” shares Uniting Kildonan Executive Officer Joanna Leece. “These generous funds can be used to help address avoidable barriers for people finding and keeping employment – including provisions for clothing, training, transport, and child care. The support from key partners such as Jemena means we have the chance to make a real and long term difference for people in our community.”

Pictured above right is Jemena’s General Manager – Electricity Markets, Andrew Davis presenting Joanna with the $5000 cheque at the Darebin Parklands Park Care Day.
Photo credit: Tim Mullane of Sustainable Image.

Make sure to check out Wednesday’s edition of the Northcote Leader (page 10) for more details on the incredible amount raised from the community. And click here to find out more about the Power Changers Pilot.

This week the Victorian Parliament is considering a Bill that takes the first steps in establishing a Treaty with Traditional Owners. We urge all members of the Victorian Parliament to support the Treaty advancement process. Recognising the rights of the Traditional Owners of the land on which all we live and work and supporting self-determination are important steps towards achieving reconciliation.

We acknowledge the great suffering caused to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people through the generations. As part of the Uniting Church, we are committed to walking together as First and Second Peoples.

You can read more about our commitment to reconciliation here.