Stable One

Stable One helps local churches in a region to work together to provide ‘more than a place to stay’ for people in their communities who are experiencing homelessness at the coldest times of year.

Offering safe and supportive shelter for those experiencing, or at risk of homelessness, Stable One is resourcing the Church to work together across denominations to care for the most vulnerable in our communities

DESCRIPTION

Stable One’s Winter Shelter initiative was born out of the prayers of the Church, research into similar projects around the world, and a biblical mandate to care for our most vulnerable neighbours. A Winter Shelter typically runs for 13 weeks from June to August and provides a powerful opportunity for churches and volunteers to connect with the reality of homelessness in our communities.  

Stable One’s mission is to support the Church as it works together to share the love of God by providing accommodation to those in need. To journey with each person towards stability, offering physical and spiritual care.

IMPACT DATA

Over 116,000 Australians and 24,000 residents of Victoria will be homeless tonight. They include families with children, young people, older people, single adults and people with disabilities.

INGREDIENTS:

To replicate this project your church will need -

• An unmet need in the local area to make provision for people experiencing homelessness.
• A Project Co-ordinator who is passionate about Jesus and people.
• 7 local churches willing to work together.
• A trailer and 10 mattresses and sets of bedding.
• A robust prayer team.
• Volunteers (around 150).
• Funds (costs vary significantly depending on paid/unpaid Project Co-ordinator).

METHOD:

Steps to run this project

1. Invite a representative from the Winter Shelter network to speak at an open meeting of interested parties from local churches.
2. Appoint a Winter Shelter Project Co-ordinator.
3. Agree governance structure eg lead church, non-profit or ecumenical body and membership of Winter Shelter network.
4. Gain the commitment from seven local churches to take one night of the week each to offer dinner, bed and breakfast for up to 10 people experiencing homelessness.
5. Recruit and vet volunteers from across the churches.
6. Undertake the Winter Shelter training including handbook, videos, policies and procedures.
7. Build relationships with homelessness services, relief organisations, hospitals, police and other points of referral.