Sleeping on the streets: the cold, hard reality of homelessness

Of the 105,000 Australians who are homeless1, almost one in five are sleeping rough, perhaps with only a newspaper to keep warm. The consequences of living on the streets are grim. Along with the isolation and loneliness comes low self-esteem and, often,
mental illness.

When homeless people do seek help they face further daunting problems. They typically visit multiple services, yet most of these are overstretched and must turn people away. Across the nation, Mission Australia’s 87 services for homeless people provide the guidance and motivation they need to transform their lives.

Chris* had been living on the city
streets for many years. He had been
accessing crisis services on a regular
basis to assist with accommodation,
meals and referrals.
Mission Australia had been trying to
work with Chris to provide assistance
and care to get his life back on track.
Initially Chris refused their help.

However, with persistence they gradually
gained his trust.

In the last six months, Chris has realised
that the staff at Mission Australia want
to help him to take control of his life
and move away from the streets.

They have been able to find him stable
accommodation and attend to his
physical and mental health needs.

Chris has started to feel a sense of belonging. A transformation in Chris’ demeanour is noticeable. He is interacting more comfortably with others, developing living skills and becoming more
self reliant.

With the help of Mission Australia,
Chris now has a secure place to live and
receives the support he needs to lead a
fulfilling life, off the streets.