Moree is not exempt from the wold-wide issue that is homelessness, however the main causes and living conditions don’t meet stereotypical expectations.
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Moree Area Homelessness Services (MAHS), a funding body of Byamee Proclaimed Place, assists people in the shire who are at risk of, or who are without a home
“We don’t necessarily have homeless people sleeping under bridges or in cardboard boxes like most people think of when they hear the word homeless.
“We have individuals and families couch surfing or hopping from place to place due to family break downs, evictions and house fires,” Byamee community engagement officer, Kristy Marquett said.
The first week of August, Homelessness Week, is nationally dedicated to raising awareness of the huge issue.
Locally, the MAHS team will host their fourth annual Hike for Homeless and are encouraging the community to jump on board.
Participants will get a taste of what homeless people go through.
- Kristy Marquett.
What was previously a week of walking has this year been cut down to just one day, from Moree to Ashley in the hopes to attract more hikers.
Registrations will be taken at Jellicoe Park on Saturday before hikers venture out towards Ashley at 9am, a bus will follow the team for anyone who only wants to walk a certain distance.
“Once we arrive at Midkin Park in Ashley the family-fun afternoon will begin and everyone is invited to bring their swags and stay overnight for the sleep out ,” Mrs Marquett said.
Coles Moree has donated fruit for the afternoon and Aboriginal Employment Strategy will hold a bake stall. EACH has offered to organise a craft stall and the State Emergency Service (SES) has donated their services to ensure all hikers are safe.
McDonalds in Moree and Flourish Australia has kindly donated money for the event and Now FM have been big supporters since day one.
There will also be a jumping castle, barbecue and plenty of children’s entertainment. “We do have access to the hall this year because the nights have been so cold, but participants will still get a taste of what homeless people go through sleeping outside.
“Money raised from the hike, fun day and sleep out will assist us to provide winter essentials including blankets to local homeless people,” she said.
For more information phone MAHS on 6752 1550.