The longstanding Loaves and Fishes Luncheon returned on Tuesday 03 June with more than 300 guests in attendance raising funds to support Anglicare Southern Queensland’s Youth Homelessness Accommodation Project.
Hosted by St John’s Cathedral, the event is famously one of Brisbane’s biggest fundraising lunches, bringing together schools, parishes and supporters to share a meal and stand in solidarity with those in need.
This year’s keynote address was delivered by National Children’s Commissioner Anne Hollonds to a room of notable guests, including Minister for Housing Sam O’Connor MP.
Anglicare Southern Queensland’s Chair of the Community Services Commission Tracy Morgan said it was a privilege to represent Anglicare as the beneficiary of the event.
“I was truly humbled to be presented with a cheque of $25,000 at the beginning of the event and even more thrilled to learn this sum had doubled by the end of the day thanks to the generosity of donors in attendance who were moved by our cause,” Ms Morgan said.
“The funds raised will go towards the 14 million dollars we have committed to our Youth Homelessness Accommodation Project at Logan, which will provide a purpose-built centre to house our youth homelessness service in Logan, to address the escalating housing crisis,” Ms Morgan said.
“We all know that housing is a fundamental human right, and stable accommodation significantly impacts on psychological well-being, independence, and self-agency. Anglicare believes every young person deserves a safe and supportive place to call home.
“In addition to housing, this new project will provide a range of vital wrap around support services including mental health support, cultural education and connection, support with living skills, financial literacy, relationship building skills and enable them to pursue educational or employment opportunities.
“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all who have contributed to this critical project, including our major donors, schools, parishes and friends.”
The project is a modern facility that will provide a mix of 30 one-bedroom and two-bedroom ensuite apartments with provisions for single families and couples.
Future residents will benefit from the safety of 24/7 on-site staff management and security. Most importantly, the development is located in proximity to essential services, shopping centres, public transport, and recreational spaces to make everyday life easier.
The project will also provide a range of vital wrap around support services including mental health support, cultural education and connection, support with living skills, financial literacy, relationship building skills and opportunities to pursue educational or employment pursuits.
To find out more on the Youth Homelessness Accommodation project, visit https://anglicaresq.org.au/fundraising/youth-homeless-accommodation-build/