Photo: Supplied.
BY ASHLEIGH HOWARTH
People experiencing homelessness and social isolation in the Redlands region now have an additional support service, with Rosies – Friends on the Street launching a new outreach in Cleveland.
The first outreach, which was held on March 31, was made possible through the generous support of Ostelin, which is funding the initiative, and Sheldon College, which has provided a hub at their school to support Rosies’ operations.
Redlands coordinator Ree Rangi – who has volunteered with Rosies since 2024 and previously assisted with the Brisbane City outreach services – said donations were crucial coming into winter.
“Blankets are high on our priority list because we don’t yet have local sources for them,” she said.
“We also need basic essentials like cups of noodles, tins of tea, coffee and hot chocolate, as well as cartons of long-life milk and packaged biscuits to hand out to people accessing our services.
“You don’t have to be homeless to join us – anyone who is in need or experiencing social isolation is welcome to join us.
“Come on down and enjoy a hot drink, have a snack, and start a conversation with us.”
Ree, who also works as a case manager in the homelessness sector, said helping vulnerable people in the community is a true passion of hers.
“Being able to have positive outcomes with people doing it tough really fills my cup.”
The Redlands outreach runs every Tuesday from 6:45pm-8:30pm at 5 Middle Street, Cleveland, with the possibility of additional outreach services in the future if demand grows.
While a number of volunteers have already signed up to help, more are always needed.
If you are able to volunteer or would like to donate items for the cause, send an email to [email protected].
