Homelessness is a harsh reality for many in our community. Many struggle daily under the current housing crisis, with a lack of support networks available and many other challenges.

Homelessness often impacts those who are suffering from domestic and family violence. This means people from all backgrounds and especially the most vulnerable in our society. It can affect anyone, and can often create life-long and generational challenges.

This is why we’re so proud at Muslim Women Australia to do our bit to tackle homelessness through our Linking Hearts service. In this blog, we look at our work in this space, and why we are so proud of it.

The truth and reality of homelessness

Homelessness is a pressing issue in Australia, affecting more than 116,000 people each night. 

It is crucial for the Muslim community to support its members, particularly those impacted by domestic violence or other factors leading to homelessness. 

Organisations like the MWA play a vital role in providing much-needed services to those in crisis, ensuring they receive the help and support required to regain stability.

Linking Hearts and the MWA

Linking Hearts provides homelessness support to women and families from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. It provides them with safe and supported crisis and transitional accommodation; accommodation that is delivered with love, care and dignity, helping our clients find repose and peace to rebuild their lives and networks.

In the last year alone, we supported over 1800 clients from over 55 different countries of birth, with over 20 different languages spoken.

We assess every referral or case through an initial assessment, before finding the right supports for those who need them.

Linking Hearts is specifically designed to support women and families from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds who are experiencing domestic violence or homelessness. This service provides emergency accommodation, case management, and support services tailored to individual needs. The aim is to offer a safe environment where individuals can begin to rebuild their lives.

Under the same initiative, MWA also offers settlement support for newly arrived migrants and refugees. This early intervention program includes housing assistance, helping individuals and families to find stable and suitable accommodation as they adapt to life in Australia.

A point of pride: Our crisis accommodation facilities

Linking Hearts provides crisis accommodation at two shared home facilities in Sydney, also known as refuges. 

It also provides transitional accommodation for those who are no longer in crisis but still require wrap-around support and casework. This includes services such as broader housing support, brokerage, financial counselling, legal support, personal counselling, and support groups. 

We wholeheartedly believe that housing is not just about having a physical space you embody, but about creating a loving space that allows for the nurturing of individuals and families.

Homelessness in Australia: A Broader Perspective

Homelessness in Australia is a complex issue, affecting over 116,000 people on any given night. This population is diverse, and the stereotypical image of a rugged individual begging on the streets represents only a fraction of those experiencing homelessness. Categories of homelessness include:

1. Primary Homelessness: People without conventional accommodation, such as those sleeping rough or in improvised dwellings.
2. Secondary Homelessness: Individuals moving between temporary accommodations, such as friends’ houses or emergency shelters.
3. Tertiary Homelessness: Those living in boarding houses or caravan parks with no security of tenure.

The Importance of a Stable Household

Having a stable household is foundational for personal and community well-being. It provides a safe environment for individuals to thrive, pursue education, secure employment, and maintain healthy relationships. 

Stability at home is linked to improved mental health, reduced stress, and better overall quality of life. For children, in particular, a stable home environment is critical for their development and future opportunities.

That is why, for those who don’t have this stability, it is crucial that our community step in to support them and offer this vital life to them.

We’re here to help

For those in crisis, it is essential to know where and how to seek help. Various organisations, including MWA, provide support and resources. The first step is reaching out to services that specialise in crisis accommodation and support.

We offer a holistic approach to supporting individuals in crisis. This includes:

• Emergency Accommodation: Safe and immediate housing solutions.
• Case Management: Personalised support to navigate various social services and housing options.
• Counselling and Advocacy: Emotional support and advocacy to ensure that the rights and needs of individuals are met.
• Legal and Financial Assistance: Access to legal advice and financial support to help stabilise the situation.

If you or someone you know is in need of urgent support, don’t wait until things get even more challenging. 

Reach out to us, and let us help. You can do so by visiting www.linkinghearts.org.au or calling 9786 4404. 

We’re here and ready to help. And we’re with our community in the struggle against homelessness.