The Rise of Homelessness in NSW: How Jewish House is Changing Lives
Homelessness is on the rise across Australia, and the situation in New South Wales is particularly dire. The 2024 Jewish House Impact Report highlights a 26% rise in rough sleeping in NSW. Driven by the cost-of-living crisis, housing shortages, and financial instability, this rising tide of homelessness is in urgent need of intervention.
CEO of Jewish House, Rabbi Mendel Kastel, recently reflected on this growing demand: "With the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, more people than ever are turning to us for help, underscoring our critical role within the community."
The Rising Tide of Homelessness in New South Wales
While crisis support providers, such as those we offer at Jewish House, are best placed to offer this much needed intervention, growing demand is placing unprecedented pressure on our services. As a result we are struggling to meet the growing demand for shelter, counselling and essential resources.
President and Founder of Jewish House, Roger Clifford, recently reflected on these growing pressures, “The escalating cost of living and rent in NSW has placed immense pressure on many, leading to a significant increase in the demand for our services”.
Rosana Coelho, Head of Social Services, echoed this sentiment highlighting that, “Our facilities are operating at full capacity every day, and it is truly heartbreaking to turn away those in need”, says Coelho. “In response, we are actively engaging with government bodies to secure additional properties, aiming to provide more beds and shelter each night”.
“We’ve also seen a significant rise in individuals reaching out for counselling services, particularly those seeking assistance to escape domestic violence”.
How Jewish House is Making a Difference
Despite the fact demand for assistance is greater than ever, the team at Jewish House remains committed to providing effective and holistic services to those in need.
As a founding member of Jewish House, Roger Clifford is proud of the organisation’s enduring compassion in addressing community challenges, always operating with dignity, kindness and respect.
“40 years after its founding, Jewish House continues to evolve to meet the changing needs of our community and its most vulnerable,” says Clifford. “Our services have expanded, our reach has broadened, and our impact has deepened in improving the lives of those who turn to us in their time of need.”
For individuals and families in crisis, the struggle to find secure housing is just one aspect of their hardship. Many also face mental health challenges, financial stress, or domestic violence.
Rabbi Kastel highlights that over the years, Jewish House has evolved into a comprehensive crisis service provider. “Our services, including crisis accommodation, mental health support, occupational therapy, case management, 24/7 crisis helpline, NDIS services and more recently, financial assistance through our No Interest Loan Scheme (NILS) and MyBond, our holistic approach empowers individuals and families to regain stability as they rebuild their lives.”
Jewish House’s 2024 Impact: At a Glance
- 106 beds utilised nightly, providing shelter for up to 100 people per night.
- Responded to 2,520 crisis calls through the 24/7 helpline.
- Delivered 821 psychology sessions and supported 524 individuals through addiction, resilience, and early intervention programs.
- Assisted 270 children via JH Kids programs.
- Helped 224 individuals secure jobs through employment programs.
- Delivered over 5,200 meals to those in need.
- Partnered with 24 national and international organizations to enhance support services.
- Secured $2.5 million in government funding to sustain and expand critical programs.
- Scaling Up for 2025
At Jewish House, we have ambitious plans for 2025, ramping up our efforts to intervene in our local homelessness crisis. With the opening of 52 new rooms in Randwick, we will increase our capacity to shelter up to 152 people a night, representing a 50% rise in our ability to provide life-saving support to those in need.
"FY25 marks a critical year for us," says Jonathan Tolub, Treasurer of Jewish House. "We are eager to begin the long-awaited renovation and expansion of our Bondi premises, ensuring we can continue to meet the growing needs of people in crisis."
This expansion is part of our updated Model of Care Statement, which reinforces our mission to provide not just immediate relief but also long-term solutions that promote stability and resilience.
Looking ahead, the team is excited about the possibilities for growth and extending our reach in the coming year. “We remain dedicated to learning new methods and adopting innovative processes, continually striving to enhance our team and the services we provide”, says Rosana Coelho.
Rabbi Mendel similarly expressed his hope for the new year and beyond: “As we look to the future, we will continue to assist those in need; advocate for change; and collaborate with the government to seek better solutions”.
Join Us in Making a Difference
The rise of homelessness in New South Wales is a challenge we cannot face alone. As the demand for our services grows, so too does our need for your support. Your generosity can help us expand our capacity, reach more people in crisis, and offer them the tools to rebuild their lives.
From shelter and counselling, to meals and financial assistance, every donation helps us provide critical resources for those doing it tough. Donate now and help us make a lasting difference in our community. Together, we can turn the tide on homelessness.
