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Premises needed to feed homeless

A committee offering food, showers and laundry facilities to the homeless is looking for new accommodation.

Temporary premises in Brickwharf Rd need to be vacated by June 21 and new premises found, according to committee member Ms Karen Grosse.

"The local parish, St John the Baptist, set up MacKillop Cottage in 1992 with an aim to feed the homeless here in Woy Woy," she said.

"This led to offering showers and laundry facilities, also.

"Unfortunately, this worthwhile service could not continue at that venue."

She said a steering committee was formed in 2000 as a three-way venture with Woy Woy Parish, Centacare and the St Vincent de Paul Society.

After many hours of "blood, sweat and tears" searching, the service arrived at the current premises off Brickwharf Rd.

"This very small room has served a need for much longer than was anticipated," said Ms Grosse.

"Over the past decade, a small band of extremely dedicated volunteers has provided nourishing, nutritious, home-cooked lunches to a group of up to 19 homeless people four days a week," she said.

"There is a public perception that all homeless are substance abusers and the dregs of society.

"This perception is so far from the reality - some are merely victims of circumstance and rely on these warm-hearted volunteers for a meal and a chat to get them through their difficult days.

"There seems to be no place in society for the homeless.

"There is a general consensus that, although the need to be fed and nurtured is evident, it's okay as long as it is elsewhere.

"Mary Mac's Place fulfils a vital area of need in Woy Woy.

"They are desperate for new premises and look to the wider community for help."

Ms Grosse said that Mary MacKillop, who is to become Australia's first Saint, had said: "Wherever you see a need, do something about it."

Contact Centacare on 4324 6403 or St John the Baptist Parish Office on 4341 1073.

Email, May 30