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Published: Monday, 15 October 2018 08:40

Nine rough sleepers already have a roof over their heads thanks to a new $12 million homelessness program being managed by Bridge Housing on behalf of the NSW Government.

The Supported Transition and Engagement (STEP) program commits us and partner organisations to housing and supporting 90 people who have experienced long-term homelessness by 2022 in a housing first model that makes safe and permanent housing the first priority for people experiencing homelessness.

Bridge Housing won a competitive government tender to manage the project, with Bridge, Women’s Housing Company and Metro Housing managing the housing while NEAMI National provides wrap around support services, including assistance to sustain their tenancies.  

Bridge Housing will source homes from the private rental market to house the residents who have experienced chronic homelessness on the streets and in temporary accommodation. Bridge Housing has already found homes for nine people including Women’s Housing Company managing two tenancies and Metro Housing managing three since the program began in July.

CEO John Nicolades said: “I am delighted that once again Bridge Housing is leading the way in meeting the needs of rough sleepers in the inner city with safe, secure long-term housing.”

“STEP builds on our experience and expertise acquired through the award-winning 2011 Platform 70 initiative and our participation in Connect 100, MISHA and other homelessness programs.” 

The program also has a regional component whereby Bridge Housing will partner with regional community housing providers to house 30 homeless people outside the Sydney metropolitan area.