On Wednesday, August 5 the not-for-profit will host a Care Day event at the Salvation Army Church on the corner of Nixon and Orr Sts from 10am to 3pm.
The day welcomes people experiencing homelessness or those facing housing insecurity, and offers a range of free services including haircuts, mental health check-ins and general health checks from community nurses.
Guests will also be treated with a roast lunch as part of the Salvation Army Corps’ Community Meal program.
Then, on Friday, August 7 the Walking Home event will take place at Victoria Park Lake at the Western Park Playground between 11.30am and 1pm.
This event aims to boost awareness of homelessness as a pressing issue both nationally and locally, bringing together youth services, homelessness services, politicians and students from local secondary schools.
Again, guests will be treated with a free sausage sizzle lunch.
For catering purposes, registration is preferred for the Walking Home event and can be completed via www.salvationarmy.org.au/shepparton/homelessnessweek/
Regional manager at the Salvation Army North East Youth Service (NEYS) Raff Salera says regardless of visibility, homelessness in Shepparton was as prevalent as anywhere else and that these events would bring the community together during crisis.
“Homelessness remains a significant issue in our local community, even if it’s not always as visible as it is in metro Melbourne,” Mr Salera said.
“We believe it’s crucial to keep this issue visible and part of everyday conversation.
“These events are an opportunity for the community to come together, learn more and show support for those experiencing or at risk of homelessness.”
The Salvation Army in Shepparton is committed to working alongside other organisations in the region to ensure that all people have the opportunity to thrive.
For more information, visit salvationarmy.org.au/shepparton/homelessnessweek or via social media.
