The ‘Keeping Safe in Shared Accommodation’ Program is run through Tenants Victoria with the aim to support private rooming houses in as many local government areas as possible during these difficult times.

When looking in Maribyrnong, organiser Catherine Dwyer, liaised with Council and Co-Health for referrals to those in need. The aim was to engage and provide a care pack of cleaning and PPE items to each resident (6 – 14 in each).

West Footscray Neighbourhood House was contacted as a possible source of supplies, volunteers and support and, while they had some basic supplies to share, it was not enough. While speaking to Andy and the team from IWCE, Suzanne from WFNH relayed her plight and the team immediately responded with a $500 donation to provide emergency supplies. A post to the local community on Facebook found Suzanne inundated with supplies of masks, hand sanitiser and cleaning products to not only complete the final rooming house project but also supply the Tenants Union with enough packs for their next project – a 50 site low income caravan park in Laverton.

This project has highlighted to WFNH and the wider community, the value and importance of assisting people to access PPE and cleaning products and they are currently devising an ongoing program to collect donations from the community which can then be distributed locally to those in need. The team at Seddon Community Bank and IWCE have been thrilled to be able to support WFNH and the amazing work they continue to do during these challenging times.