A NEW outreach service aimed at supporting people experiencing homelessness and social isolation has launched in Cleveland as Rosies – Friends on the Street expands into the Redlands.
The Queensland-based organisation held its first local outreach on Tuesday at 5 Middle St, Cleveland, from 6.45pm to 8.30pm.
The expansion comes amid ongoing concerns about housing stress in the region with Rosies seeking to provide both practical support and human connection for those doing it tough.
Rosies – Friends on the Street is dedicated to offering companionship, support and essential items to people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.
Through regular outreach services, volunteers provide food, drinks and necessities while also offering conversation and connection.
The Redlands service has been made possible through support from Ostelin, which is funding the initiative, and Sheldon College, which has provided a local hub to assist operations.
Sarah Pothecary, Zone Brand Lead for Ostelin, said the organisation was proud to support the expansion and its focus on vulnerable women.
“Ostelin is proud to deepen our partnership with Rosies, standing alongside women in our communities who are doing it tough and helping to provide connection, dignity and hope,” she said.
“Rosies’ outreach aligns strongly with our purpose – supporting women to feel more connected and empowered to build strength in their everyday lives.
“Expanding our collaboration into this new outreach enables us to extend meaningful support where it’s needed most.
“We believe in the impact Rosies delivers, and we’re excited to amplify that together.”
Sheldon College Deputy Principal Lissa Gyte said the partnership would also provide meaningful opportunities for students.
“Hosting Rosies reflects our belief that in an interconnected world, the skills and mindsets needed to navigate global complexities can be developed locally,” she said.
“Through service learning and community engagement, our students build the awareness, empathy and sense of responsibility required to engage meaningfully with others.
“At Sheldon College, we see service as more than an experience – it is a pathway to advocacy.
“By supporting our community, students are empowered to transform understanding into action, cultivating not only capable learners, but compassionate leaders committed to making a positive difference.”
Rosies CEO Jayne Shallcross said the new outreach responded to a clear and growing need in the Redlands.
“While the Redlands is often seen as a thriving coastal community, the reality is that homelessness and housing insecurity are present here, as they are across Queensland,” Ms Shallcross said.
“Every person deserves to feel seen, heard, and valued.
The organisation is now calling on the Redlands community to get involved with opportunities to volunteer, donate or provide essential items such as instant noodles, biscuits, muesli bars, coffee and long-life milk.
For more information, visit rosies.org.au.
