Currently, the village is being prepared to offer a safe space for people who currently stay in cars, vans, campers, tents and caravans. The buildings provide an opportunity to create emergency accommodation and other services to assist people living onsite. One of the benefits of activity and people occupying the land, it provides zero cost security and maintenance.
Current Services being Developed
Services are defined as provisions that are directed towards assisting village guests who may have nowhere else to live. Upon arrival at the village, each guest’s needs are considered during a chat with the site manager, or volunteer of Qld Homelesssness Working Group (QHWG). Once a better understanding of the circumstances are known, QHWG can help with getting settled into the village, and arrange for any wrap-around services that would be of benefit. These services range in terms of:
- Segregated amenities with toilets, showers and laundry
- Care Packs with essential supplies for individuals, with add-ons for women and children
- Meal vouchers from local businesses, community groups and charities
- Food from Foodbank and other external sponsors
- Counseling for traumatised families and individuals
- Clean bedding & towels
- Clothing & shoes from charity shops and community groups
Bus Service at the Gate
Being within 1km to IGA Supermarket and just 4mins by bus to Tewantin CBD, it is an aim of the project to provide guests with a free bus pass so they can get around town, attend to essential other services, keep a job, attend school and all the things that reliable transport provides.
Village Social Events
Once each month it is proposed that the “self organising collective” of Community Village will hold a daytime village social event lasting 3-4hrs, and based around food to bring guests together and help break down barriers.
Community Facilities
Facilities in the village will be established where people can attend workshops, education programs, creative arts and read books. Creativity and constructive involvement in little projects will help guests build self worth and confidence, plus add to the eclectic vibe of the village. A rustic village cafe run by guests is also planned for a suitable space in time.
Services planned for the village will be free to guests and delivered by specialists in their relevant areas. These may include:
- Analysis and coaching on personal, family and financial matters to fix the cause of their issues;
- Referral to specific emergency or short-term accommodation if needed;
- A range of wraparound support services delivered by reputable local charities:
- Debt relief from unsustainable obligations causing financial hardship, or accumulated debts from interest, infringements, overdue fees and the like;
- Negotiation with agents, landlords and employers to assist where needed;
- Assistance with child support & knowledge development programs or facilities;
- Assistance accessing medical, health and dental services;
- Assisting with sale of unnecessary or burdensome vehicles & equipment such as boats, caravans, motorbikes and toys that are draining on financial resources or can be used to pay out debt.
- Encouraging positive behaviour and referral to a range of counselling services