Mother Tends Wounds and Distributes Water to City’s Homeless
In central Queensland, Cheryl Dolan is on a mission to support the city’s homeless population. Daily, she witnesses new individuals sleeping on the streets of Rockhampton, prompting her to take action. She originally aimed to clean public spaces but has since extended her efforts to help vulnerable people.
The Birth of a Community Initiative
Beginning her grassroots clean-up initiative late last year, Dolan was motivated by the concerning amounts of trash and discarded needles in local parks. In one instance, she discovered 29 syringes, awakening a sense of urgency within her.
Through social media, Dolan gathered a group of volunteers. Since then, they have regularly collected rubbish in parks and along waterways.
Addressing Homelessness
During their clean-up efforts, Dolan and her team encountered many rough sleepers. This personal interaction led to additional assistance, such as dressing wounds, providing food and water, and contacting emergency services.
The group’s efforts have heightened community awareness about homelessness and sparked discussions on how to improve support services for those in need.
Proposed Solutions by Rockhampton Council
Rockhampton Councillor Grant Mathers has praised Dolan’s initiative. Instead of employing strategies that displace homeless individuals, the council is contemplating a designated site called “Rockhaven.” This site aims to provide essential services including toilets and camping facilities.
The council identified the former Rockhampton Music Bowl site, located approximately 8 kilometers from the city center, as a potential location. They have invited public feedback, and, as of now, 647 residents have shared their opinions. A report summarizing this feedback will be published on February 10.
Community Opinions and Concerns
Councillor Mathers has indicated that feedback from those with experience of homelessness is crucial in shaping this proposal. Some residents are concerned about the site’s location, while others emphasize the importance of ensuring dignified living conditions.
- Proposed site: Former Rockhampton Music Bowl
- Distance from nearest shopping center: Approximately 1.7 kilometers
The Need for Comprehensive Support
Fabian Webber, the homelessness coordinator at Roseberry Queensland, estimates that around 2,000 individuals are currently sleeping rough in Rockhampton. He warns that without proper housing, the situation will remain critical.
Webber advocates for a more suitable solution, emphasizing the importance of personal space and safety. He notes that many individuals facing homelessness also struggle with underlying health issues, which are exacerbated by their living conditions. Ongoing support services are vital for helping these individuals regain stability.
Community Voices
Local resident Ian Dunn has witnessed the impact of homelessness firsthand. He volunteers with Dolan’s clean-up group and estimates that up to 12 people sleep in tents at a local park. He supports the Rockhaven plan but expresses concerns about its accessibility.
Another volunteer, Cassy Tzoutzias, initially joined the clean-up for environmental reasons but discovered the severity of the homelessness issue through her work. Her experiences have deepened her concern for those struggling in the community.
Dolan hopes that, if approved, the Rockhaven proposal will equip homeless individuals with necessary facilities like bathrooms. “These people are human,” she insists, highlighting the need for compassion and effective solutions. Together, community members are striving to create a more supportive environment for Rockhampton’s homeless population.
