Rosies – Friends on the Street

About Rosies – Friends on the Street

Can you imagine what it would be like if no one had said your name or looked you in the eye in the last three months?

Unfortunately this is something that many people who are homeless, at risk of homelessness, or socially isolated experience.

Since 1987, it has been our mission to ensure that no Queenslander feels left out or disconnected from their community. Rosies aims to provide friendship and unconditional acceptance to those doing it tough with a warm smile and a hot drink.

Some of our patrons even equate connection and conversation to be as important as safe accommodation and food¹.

The stress that comes with homelessness or being at risk of homelessness also increases the risk of mental illness. You’d be surprised what a difference a simple chat and basic hospitality can do to impact an individual’s mental health and physical wellbeing. Through connection and friendship we aim to acknowledge human dignity, combat social isolation, and inspire increased self-reliance.

While Rosies currently operates 14 branches across Queensland comprised of more than 1,300 volunteers, our home is right here in the local community with our head office operating out of a small building located on the Iona College campus. Thanks to our dedicated team of volunteers our outreach program run somewhere in the state every single night of the year. Additionally we provide support in the courts, youth detention centres and operate a robust school engagement program with 50 schools and some 1500 students and teachers.

To learn more of get involved please visit: https://rosies.org.au/

Source: 1 Conversation between patron and Team leader, Emma Miller Place, Brisbane City 7 March 2021.