By JONATHON HOWARD
NOOSA’S hidden homeless are forming lengthy queues at local support services with the basics of food and shelter in high demand.
The Salvation Army Noosa is reporting an increase in the need for helping hands and food, as non-perishable stocks begin to dry up.
The blame is falling on government cutbacks, which continue to push through parliament spurred on by the Federal Government’s determination to slash spending.
Salvation Army Lieutenant David Sutcliffe core officer Noosa, said Noosa’s homeless population was increasing with a third of all people assisted last year new to the Salvos’ services – and those over 50s are most at risk.
“It can take less than four weeks to go from being financially safe, to being in a position where you could lose everything,” he said.
“Unfortunately, we often only begin to see people once they have lost everything, including hope. But we can help to try and prevent this from happening.
“We want to encourage people to come and see us immediately if they lose their job, business or accommodation. The earlier we can start helping the better the outcome.”
Lieutenant Sutcliffe said the largest area of need was for food.
“This allows people to still be able to continue to pay their bills,” he said.
Lieutenant Sutcliffe also revealed a number of former small business owners are also making up the queues.
“We seen an increase recently in the number of people coming to see us for assistance who have lost their small business,” he said.
“One large issue is the number of people over 50 who are unable to find employment. These are skilled people who have worked their whole lives before being put off in the last couple of years due to the economic climate.”
Lieutenant Sutcliffe said one of the biggest issues facing Noosa is affordable housing.
“There is a severe shortage of affordable accommodation in the area, with 20 per cent of people assisted in 2013-14 either homeless, couch surfing or living in tents or their cars,” he said.
Another area in short supply is volunteers and Lieutenant Sutcliffe has extended an invitation for new community minded volunteers to answer the call.
If you would like to find out more about volunteering or to make a donation at the Salvation Army Noosa phone: (07) 5442 4218.
