Centre for the homeless gets $20,000 boost

MAY 30, 2016: THE long held vision of creating a Drop In Centre for the homeless in Mackay took another step forward today with the presentation of a grant for $20,000 under the Stronger Communities Programme.Mackay Drop In Centre (MDIC) will construct a purpose-built building in partnership with Salvation Army Mackay to provide a day service for homeless people of Mackay.I recommended this project for the maximum funding available under the Liberal National Government’s Stronger Communities Programme, and I’m thrilled to see that it’s been approved.A small group of people have been working on this project for a number of years now, and we look like seeing it become a reality by the end of the year.I congratulate those who’ve put in a tireless and determined effort to make this a reality; particularly former councillor Alison Jones, committee members like Don Leckenby and of course we’ve had the Salvation Army become involved more recently as the Drop In Centre will be built on their land.I’ve had an involvement in the project for some time, and donated $12,000 personally to see this get off the ground.Another $20,000 through the Stronger Communities grants will help to build this Day Service Building which will help with the physical and mental health of those who need to access basic necessities such as showers, washing machines, kitchen facilities and storage lockers.The centre will also ensure that homeless people can access GPs, allied health and domestic violence services.Others who will contribute to the construction of the Mackay Drop In Centre Day Service Building include Ideal Placements, Woollam Constructions, Mackay Regional Council and P.I Technical Services.