The Problem

The homeless situation for people sleeping rough in the Northern Rivers in Byron Shire and Tweed Shire, NSW, is amongst the worst in the state. Many people not normally at risk of homelessness now find themselves in that situation.  Rapidly rising house prices and rental affordability issues make it difficult for many individuals and families to secure safe and stable housing.  Furthermore, recent natural disasters like bushfires and floods have only added to the difficulties faced by those in need of housing support. 

A Solution

Winter Warmer is an annual campaign aimed at helping the homeless community in the Northern Rivers region of Australia during the winter season.  

In 2023, we provided warmth and nourishment to over 920 people experiencing or at risk of homelessness across Tweed Shire – supporting people sleeping rough by providing new blankets, sleeping bags, tents, clothing, food and hygiene packs.

The 2024 campaign aims to raise $75,000 and support four community groups and charities that are working to alleviate the suffering of those who are sleeping rough in harsh winter conditions in the Byron Shire and Tweed regions of Northern NSW.  The campaign offers different support options, including providing meals, safe sleeps, warm winter clothing, toiletries, and new winter-warming sleeping bags.

Your support will make a significant difference as it will be equally shared among four Tweed-based community groups and charities that are tirelessly working to alleviate the suffering of those experiencing homelessness in the region:

Pottsville Beach Neighbourhood Centre – is a vibrant human services community hub, which responds to the needs of people impacted by hardship, disadvantage, barriers to wellbeing, life challenges and changing circumstances.

Murwillumbah Community Centre – Aboriginal Family Support – culturally safe support for the Aboriginal community for a range of needs including homelessness, crisis support, advocacy and counselling.

Fred’s Place / Vinnies – Fred’s Place is an empathic, friendly, safe environment that provides services to vulnerable and homeless people within the local Tweed Heads community.

Fletcher Street Cottage – is a welcoming, safe and respectful place for people experiencing homelessness to get practical relief, find connections and access broader support.  A one-stop-shop for Byron’s most vulnerable with co-located services making for easy access. There is assistance with housing, mental health, physical health, legal advice, GP, Centrelink and counselling, plus other basics like providing a safe place to enjoy a meal, have a shower and do some washing.

All of these wonderful charities provide support and assistance to homeless people, including meals, laundry facilities, counseling, and other essential services. 

The funds raised by Dharma Care’s Winter Warmer campaign will be used to provide  meals, safe sleeps, warm winter clothing, toiletries, and new winter-warming sleeping bags for the homeless community across the Byron and Tweed shires.

Long Term Impacts

With winter approaching and homeless communities facing the challenges of sleeping rough in cold, wet, and harsh conditions, we have an opportunity to make a difference in their lives.   By spreading support to a diverse range of community groups and charities, we can help alleviate the suffering of those in need in the Northern Rivers region. With your donations, we can make a positive impact and help those who are struggling to get through the winter months.

Images for this campaign are used with permission from Dr Livingstone Armytage’s book – Homeless: Hidden in Plain Sight. Photos: © Livingston Armytage (2023).