By Luke Voogt
An organisation helping homeless Geelong men has expanded its capacity by 50 per cent following the construction of seven new one-bedroom units.
Former Geelong mayor and Samaritan House chair Keith Fagg on Wednesday thanked state government, council and several philanthropic donors for funding the expansion.
“What you see before you today is the result of a remarkable collaboration, a powerful example of what Geelong can do at its finest in seeking to support some of the most vulnerable and disadvantaged people in our community,” he said.
Samaritan House, founded in late 2011, helps men in greater Geelong who are sleeping rough or homeless by providing accommodation, an evening meal and ongoing support services.
The construction of seven new one-bedroom, prefabricated independent living units at the Moolap site will enable the service to support 50 per cent more men reaching out for help.
The units are designed to offer independent living for three to six months, with affordable rent to help men transition to longer-term social housing.
Local manufacturer FormFlow designed and installed the units from a prototype in partnership with Deakin University’s school of architecture.
The design reduces environmental impacts by utilising off-site construction, natural ventilation, solar energy and water tanks, and native landscaping reduces irrigation needs.
Regional Development Minister Mary-Anne Thomas on Wednesday visited the expansion of Samaritan House, which state government supported through a $500,000 grant.
“Samaritan House is giving some of the most vulnerable Victorians a roof over their head, helping them transition to a more stable future,” Ms Thomas said.
The collaboration has enabled students undertaking apprenticeships in horticulture and landscaping at Gordon TAFE to gain practical experience working on site.
“The Samaritan House project will make a world of difference to people in our community, providing them with stability and safety when they need it most,” Geelong MP Christine Couzens said.
“We’re building a stronger state by investing in the support people need, particularly for those doing it tough,” her Labor colleague and Bellarine MP Lisa Neville added.
