Glenn Buijs
2 February 2024
On Saturday the 20 January, REACH West Epiphany Hoppers Crossing officially launched their Refugee and Migrant Housing program.
This program will offer newly arrived refugee or in need migrant families 12 months accommodation at a low cost. Its aim is to allow families to establish themselves within the community while saving money and taking part in training to help them find employment.
At the official opening Epiphany Anglican vicar the Venerable Glenn Buijs said housing and rental affordability, employment and education were the three concerns parishioners and community members consistently named during his time at the church.
Read more: Holiday retreat for refugees to help them feel at home
In response to these challenges the parish has established a Community Centre, offering programs aimed to improve the employment opportunities of newly arrived refugees and migrants. The parish also established a foodbank catering for about 40 families weekly and assisting newly arrived refugees with rental bonds, subsidised rental payments, and household goods.
Mr Buijs said he was grateful for the Community of the Holy Name, whose generosity allowed the housing project to go ahead.
He said the community was founded by Sister Esther in 1888 and instrumental in the establishment of the Mission to Streets and Lanes, and that the project was therefore a continuation of its long legacy of caring for the most vulnerable.
Read more: Church’s 10 hour music jam to raise funds for refugee aid
He said that in purchasing two houses for the program of housing newly arrived migrants and refugees, the community continued its long tradition of caring for the most needy and vulnerable within society.
After viewing the two new properties, guests returned to Epiphany Hoppers Crossing where they enjoyed a smorgasbord of Karen and African food, singing and dance.
For anyone wanting to make a tax deductable donation towards this please contact the Venerable Glenn Buijs on 0414 848 060.
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