Homelessness Week honoured with SAC Danjoo Koort free community event and Big Sleep Out

Vital help in the form of free vaccinations, food and vouchers and advocacy will be granted to those doing it tough this week as Albany prepares to host an array of events to mark Homelessness Week.
The Southern Aboriginal Corporation is set to host more than 20 support services at a free community event on Wednesday, offering people experiencing homelessness free vaccinations, op-shop vouchers, housing sign-ups and a barbecue.
Held at Retravision Stadium from 9am to 3pm, the Dandjoo Koort Homelessness Event is an opportunity for people to connect and share their experiences as well as access vital services.

“Homelessness is not just a housing issue,” Southern Aboriginal Corporation chief executive Asha Bhat said.
“It is deeply tied to health, education, justice, and cultural wellbeing.
“Dandjoo Koort is about coming together in heart and action, listening to community voices, building trust, and walking beside people to create lasting change through culturally safe and integrated support.”
She said that Aboriginal people are disproportionately affected by homelessness, representing 29 per cent of WA homelessness population.
“Behind the statistics are real families navigating overcrowded housing, couch surfing, and unsafe environments,” she said.
“This event offers an opportunity for service providers and community members to connect in a space that prioritises dignity, inclusion and cultural safety.
“At SAC, we are committed to ensuring that every Aboriginal person not only has access to housing, but to a home that supports healing, independence, and community connection.”
The Wednesday event will be followed by the annual Community Bank Big Sleep Out event on Saturday, where participants spend the night at the Albany Leisure and Aquatic Centre to raise awareness of the daily plight of people experiencing homelessness.
Chief executive of homelessness peak body Shelter WA Kath Snell said the events are a “timely reminder” of the need for communities to come together to fight the issue.
“This week, communities right across WA are stepping up with powerful local actions,” she said.
“These community-led initiatives demonstrate the innovation and compassion in addressing the homelessness crisis in our State.
“These projects not only provide immediate support but tackle the stigma, stereotypes and systemic issues that keep people trapped in housing insecurity.”
Homelessness Week runs from August 4-10.
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