Key updates to Fitzroy units thanks to Community Bank

Much-needed upgrades to Brotherhood of St. Laurence (BSL) Fitzroy independent living units will be delivered with $500,000 from Community Bank Clifton Hill – North Fitzroy.

The grant makes up a quarter of Community Bank’s $2 million Housing for the Homeless Fund to support local safe and secure housing for those in urgent need.

BSL Executive Director Travers McLeod thanked Community Bank, its Board and chair Graeme Russell at its AGM and End of Year Event, joined by The Hon Ged Kearney MP Assistant Minister for Social Services and the Prevention of Family Violence and Member for Cooper, and BSL Chief Strategy and Impact Officer Zeah Behrend.

“Our vision at BSL is for an Australia free of poverty; and safe, secure housing is vital to that,” Ms Behrend said. “Community Bank shares our goals of strengthening local communities through housing stability, financial wellbeing and social connection – and this project supports all three.”

“This $500,000 will go directly to kitchen and bathroom renovations and roof repairs at BSL independent living units in Fitzroy.

“This will help us provide supported housing and social inclusion services to people experiencing homelessness, and ensure current, and future, residents continue to live with dignity in homes that are appropriate for 2025 and beyond.”

Fitzroy residents also have access to additional support, outreach and social connection opportunities, through BSL’s  Coolibah Social Connections Hub .

Assistant Minister Kearney emphasised safe housing as central to living with dignity and congratulated the Community Bank on its local leadership: “A safe home can profoundly change a life, and I am proud to support these initiatives that will help many within our community. No one should have to face homelessness and feel like there are no options or support.”

Mr Russell noted more than half of Victorian women, young people and children seeking homelessness services were also experiencing family violence.

“These are practical projects that can quickly add or upgrade transitional housing for people at risk of homelessness … this additional $2 million commitment to homelessness is our most significant investment yet - the need is urgent, and our strong performance means we can fund it.”

Aboriginal Housing Victoria and Kids Under Cover also received grants.