Barnabas House is forecasting a dip in occupancy over the Christmas period, as loved ones of residents who left attempt reconciliation and reconnection over Christmas.
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Felix Sebastian, the administrator at Barnabas, said they usually see a drop in residency over the season as families invite residents back to their homes.
"During Christmas, some people move back and patch up relationships so on our end, we get a dip ... It's good, it gives us some time off to spend with our families so it's a win-win," he explained.
He added that Christmas marked a period of charitable donations from the community as well, which they were grateful for.
"During Christmas, the community always really comes out. There are some ladies who collect handbags that they fill with toiletries, so we can hand them out to residents ... we get sometimes an overwhelming amount of support and we really appreciate that."
While the drop is certainly good news, Mr Sebastian said that it won't take away from the need for more long-term action.
"We want people to have a long-term housing option ... our development application is to hold them for three to six months. I don't want someone staying here for six months and then going to sleep under a willow tree. If that happens, then I have failed," Mr Sebastian said.
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"In the long-term, it's not a matter of just more housing, but more affordable housing," he added.
"We can do our bit here, but that's something for the big players. If everyone can do their bit, it's something that can be achieved."
Looking to 2022 and beyond, Barnabas House has some plans for developments including providing respite accommodation to go alongside the Base Hospital redevelopment.
Pastor Rodney Bortolin said that they were looking at increased security and a community area as well.
"We're looking at a sheltered area with a barbecue, we can instigate that. Invite the residents to come and share and help each other out ... sometimes they feel like they're the only ones in their situation and knowing that others are there helps," Pastor Bortolin said.
The security upgrades currently being looked at will include things like improved lighting, security cameras and a boom gate to prevent unknown visitors.
"We get random vehicles coming to suss what we're doing, and not checking in with us. When you've got vulnerable people, you don't want them worrying about who is knocking on the door," Mr Sebastian said.
Information on Barnabas House is available at their website - barnabashouse.org.au.
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