In a significant stride towards addressing homelessness and providing aid to survivors of domestic violence, Jewish House and MyBond have forged a groundbreaking collaboration. Through their innovative rental bond product, "Jewish House MyBond Support," they aim to provide relief and empower individuals in need.
The product, officially launched at NSW Parliament House just before Rosh Hashanah, signifies a proactive approach to tackle the pressing issue of homelessness. Jewish House CEO, Rabbi Mendel Kastel, emphasised the importance of having a safe place to call home, highlighting the critical role this initiative plays in ensuring individuals feel secure.
One of the critical aspects of Jewish House MyBond Support is its accessibility to a broader spectrum of individuals. While government assistance often targets those in low-income brackets, there exists a gap for individuals who don't qualify for such aid, including victims of domestic violence. This collaboration bridges that gap, extending a lifeline to those caught in the middle, enabling them to break free from dangerous situations.
The CEO of MyBond, Ray Dib, shed light on the harsh realities driving homelessness, citing escalating rents and minimal vacancies as contributing factors. The urgency of the situation cannot be overstated, with more Australians finding themselves without shelter. Through Jewish House MyBond Support, they aspire to disrupt this cycle, offering not just shelter but safety and hope to those in need.
Rachael Natoli, CEO/Founder of Lokahi Foundation, shared her personal journey of escaping an abusive marriage, underscoring the profound impact of having a safe space provided by Jewish House. “I had no idea of what to do or where to go … we ended up having five different homes in seven weeks,” she said. She said the three weeks she spent at Jewish House “was the first time in a long time that I’d actually felt safe. Once we were settled into our new home, our new safe life, I decided that I wanted to help other abuse victim-survivors. Now I have the privilege of working with Jewish House,” she said. “Jewish House MyBond Support is going to be a lifesaver … what that really means is that victim-survivors can leave their abuse sooner knowing that they can afford somewhere safe to go.”
The testimonies of individuals like Rachael Natoli underscore the life-changing impact of initiatives like Jewish House MyBond Support. By facilitating access to rental bonds with minimal upfront fees, this collaboration empowers individuals to take control of their circumstances, providing a pathway to safety and stability.
Member for Coogee Marjorie O’Neill, who hosted the launch, said addressing homelessness is a NSW government priority. “However, it is incredibly important that I particularly mention the non-government sector, including Jewish House, where you are a key stakeholder and driver of innovation in this area.”
As Jewish House and MyBond join forces to revolutionise housing access and combat homelessness, they set a precedent for global initiatives aimed at empowering individuals in need. Through their unwavering commitment to providing relief and support, they offer a glimmer of hope for those navigating challenging circumstances, reaffirming the belief that everyone deserves a place to call home.
Read the Australian Jewish News article.
