Swan Emergency Accommodation service guaranteed funding until mid-1998

12/11/96

The Swan Emergency Accommodation service in Midland has been guaranteed funding until mid-1998, Family and Children's Services Minister Cheryl Edwardes and Federal Family Services Minister Judi Moylan announced today.

This means the centre can continue to provide crisis accommodation and support for up to seven homeless families and 18 young people at a time.

Family and Children's Services has granted the centre $409,624 a year until June 30, 1998 under the Supported Accommodation Assistance Program (SAAP).

SAAP is funded by both the State and Commonwealth Governments to provide accommodation and support for homeless people in Western Australia. There are currently more than 100 SAAP services available in metropolitan, rural and remote areas throughout the State.

"Families and individuals can find themselves without a home for many reasons, including unemployment, illness or personal crisis," Mrs Edwardes said.

"SAAP accommodation services help people in crisis by providing a safe, secure setting where they can assess their situation and develop essential social and living skills."

"The Swan Emergency Accommodation service provides not only beds but informal counselling, referral to other agencies and help with claiming income entitlements," Mrs Moylan said.

"The extra knowledge and skills gained there can help people avoid similar crises in the future.

"The funding demonstrates the Commonwealth and State Governments' commitment to providing support to people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless and will benefit the whole community."

Media contacts: Diana Russell Coote 421 7777