Wheatbelt Aboriginal Corp's men's hostel, Northam

11/3/97

The Wheatbelt Aboriginal Corporation men's hostel in Northam 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 hostel can continue to provide safe medium-term accommodation for up to eight men at a time who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.

Family and Children's Services has granted the service $42,905 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.

"People can find themselves without a home for many reasons, including unemployment, illness or personal crisis," Mrs Parker said.

"This service provides them with information, support and a safe, secure setting so they can concentrate on working through their crises and making informed choices about the future."

Mrs Moylan said the service aimed to help homeless Aboriginal men become as self-reliant and independent as possible.

"Men can get help to find long-term accommodation and develop skills which may help them avoid similar situations in the future," Mrs Moylan said.

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

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