GRASSROOTS Ipswich charity Helping Our Homies is facing mounting pressure as demand for its services surges while donations fail to keep pace.
The volunteer-run outreach group, which supports people experiencing homelessness and hardship, says it is being stretched thin as more people turn to it for assistance.
Founder Dallas Coventry said the group was continuing to operate with a smaller core team, even as demand increases.
“Last year we had a bigger team, but due to personal reasons it’s now a smaller core group,” he said.
“We’ve been making it work – but the demand has definitely increased.”
The organisation provides fortnightly street feeds, food hampers and essential supplies across Ipswich, with its regular Thursday night outreach at Queens Park drawing significantly larger crowds in recent months.
Mr Coventry said referrals from larger organisations, including The Salvation Army and St Vincent de Paul Society, had contributed to the rise in people seeking support.
“We’re having more people sent our way for food and support,” he said.
“We don’t mind, we love helping, but it has definitely added to the demand.”
Attendance at the street feeds has grown to an average of around 50 people, with recent events seeing more than 80 meals served in a single evening.
Despite the increased need, donations are not keeping up.
“Donations come in, but not enough for what we’re going through,” Mr Coventry said.
“There are times we’re almost out, and then something comes through just in time to keep us going.”
As a self-funded charity, Mr Coventry said rising costs were adding further strain, particularly as referrals continue to increase.
The transient nature of homelessness in the region is also creating challenges, with many people forced to move frequently due to local restrictions.
With cooler weather approaching, Helping Our Homies is preparing for further demand by launching blanket and clothing drives alongside its ongoing food programs.
You can contact Helping Our Homies on its socials pages.
