A VIBRANT community artwork has become the centrepiece of this year’s National Homelessness Week in Ipswich, inviting locals to pause, reflect and share what “home” truly means to them.
The project, led by the Ipswich Housing and Homelessness Network – a collaboration of more than 50 local community service representatives – aims to ignite conversation and raise awareness about the growing issue of homelessness in the region.
“This artwork is more than just paint on canvas,” Service Director of Hannah’s House, Hayley Dunikowski told Local Ipswich News.
“It’s about giving the community a voice, highlighting that for many people, home is fragile or out of reach.”
Throughout the week, the network brought the artwork into cafes, the Nicholas Street Precinct, schools such as Sacred Heart Booval, the Ipswich Youth Advisory Council, Ipswich City Council, and The Rotary Club of Ipswich City School Lunch Program.
“The community artwork reflects what ‘home’ means to our community where so many are impacted by homelessness,” Ipswich Community Youth Service Programs Manager David Lonne said.
“Messages that have come through in the artwork include safety, comfort, family, acceptance and that home isn’t just a roof, it’s identity.”
The messages captured on the artwork have been heartfelt and powerful, showing that a home is far more than just a roof overhead – it’s a foundation for belonging and security.
“What a great community engagement project for Homelessness Week, by having a travelling art canvas,” local community leader and Rotary of Ipswich City member Donna Cavanagh said.
“We were very fortunate to have the canvas at our sandwich-making session last week,” she said.
“During that session we made over 6000 sandwiches for 30 local Ipswich schools who are at risk of homelessness”
The project formed part of National Homelessness Week, coordinated by Homelessness Australia and running from August 4-10.
