OUTREACH

CRISIS UNITS

The Stables unit (pictured above) is housed in the former stables of the Parish Priory, original parish crisis shelter. It has recently been refurbished.

The Rocky Lane and Schoolhouse units are situated in a former School building.

All three units are fully self contained, consisting of a bed-sitting room with cooking facilities and an ensuite bathroom/laundry. All equipment, linen and consumables are provided. The crisis units can accommodate up to 2 adults and 2 children or 1 adult and 3 children.

The crisis units aim to accommodate those in need for a maximum of 4-5 weeks. This arrangement enables tenants to make contact with Centrelink, housing and other government agencies and allows the Parish to assist the maximum number of families in any one year.St. Joseph's works closely with many different housing agencies to ensure that the units are always occupied.

Whilst staying in the crisis units, tenants are supported by Parish staff and are able to access the food store.

The Crisis units are provided to homeless families free of charge and are the only crisis accommodation of this type in the State of Victoria. 

Volunteers service the units between tenants and operational costs are supported through fundraising by the Parish of South Yarra and St. Joseph's Emergency Housing.

St. Joseph’s accepts applications from many different housing agencies. Vacancies are filled on a ‘first-come, first-served’basis. No bookings are taken for future vacancies.

The Shelter is funded entirely by the Parish through donations and the occasional grant from the City of Stonnington Community Grants Scheme.

Volunteers support the work of the shelter by assisting between tenants. This involves light cleaning duties, making beds and laundering the linen on site.