Funding for Shalom House crisis accommodation service

30/4/97

The Shalom House crisis accommodation service in Mirrabooka has been guaranteed funding until mid-1998, Family and Children's Services Minister Rhonda Parker and Federal Family Services Minister Judi Moylan announced today.

This means the service can continue to provide safe accommodation and support for families and single adults who are homeless or at risk of crisis.

Family and Children's Services has allocated the Jewish Community Services of Western Australia $10,916 a year until June 30, 1998 to operate the service.

It is funded through the Supported Accommodation Assistance Program (SAAP), a joint State/Commonwealth program which provides more than 100 services throughout the State.

"As a community we have a responsibility to provide safe and secure accommodation for homeless Western Australians," Mrs Parker said.

"This service provides one house for short and medium-term accommodation to single people and families without homes.

"People are supported through their crisis and helped to develop knowledge and skills to reduce the likelihood of future crises."

Mrs Moylan said homeless people would find a safe, supportive environment where they could explore various services and options to develop a more secure lifestyle.

"They will be able to obtain informal counselling, help in accessing income entitlements and finding alternative housing options," she said.

"This funding demonstrates the Commonwealth and State Governments' commitment to supporting single people and families in crisis."

Media contact: Kaye Hopkins (09) 481 7810 or Sandi Logan (06) 277 7240