Swags help the homeless sleep easier

As part of National Homelessness Week and in support of those who may not have a roof over their head, Access Housing Australia has donated swags to the Intown Centre in Bunbury.

Centre support worker Chondelle Heron said the demand for swags had increased in the past five months and she had already identified a few people who would require them.

“I am chatting to our clients every day and have a fair idea about who needs the swags,” she said.

“The need for swags in Bunbury is huge and at least four times a week I will be approached for blankets, bedding or swags.

“These swags will give some of our clients in need a sense of dignity and a sense of pride.”

Intown Centre manager Leanne Gibbs said this was the fourth year they had been involved in receiving swags from Access Housing.

She said this year’s design was very clever as they were lightweight, waterproof and could be carried as a backpack.

Access Housing South West tenancy services manager Matina Aitken said the smart design allowed space to carry other belongings and they were mildew resistant and fire retardant.

“We are proud to support the Intown Centre and it can roll up into a backpack which makes it easy for them to carry,” she said.

Access Housing chief executive officer Garry Ellender said more than 10,000 people in WA slept rough on any given night and they would continue to support homelessness providers.

“One of our key focusses is to assist people experiencing homelessness to access affordable, sustainable accommodation,” he said.