National Homelessness Week

Miniter’s Letter – 30 July 2026

Orange Sky Laundry at the Cathedral

Friends, in Christ, next week is national Homelessness Week. The Cathedral will be holding a special version of our monthly ‘hub’ on August 4, where – in addition to our usual Street T breakfast – we’ll be joined by another 20 or so charities and government services. Afterwards, we’ll run our first Homelessness Week church service.

We all know that housing is a massive problem. Rental stock in Sydney, for example, is still significantly down on pre-COVID levels. As a result, Anglicare recently found that none of the properties listed in the Sydney LGA were appropriate and affordable for those on government support or the minimum wage. Zero – not one! This number only increases to 2% of stock should such people spend up to 45% of their incomes on rent (see Anglicare’s ‘Rental Affordability Snapshot, 2026’).

The number of people experiencing persistent homelessness is also growing, especially among older Australians. A full half of such people are said to have a mental health issue, though which leads to which is less clear. Sadly, the single most common reason for seeking housing assistance is family and domestic violence (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, Specialist homelessness services report 2024-2025).

As people who’ve experienced God’s love in Jesus, we long to show mercy to all in need, and to do this with more than words alone. For example, see 1 John 3:17-18…

If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person? Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth. (See also James 2:15-16.)

So how can we start?

Organisations such as Anglicare do a terrific job of understanding and addressing the myriad issues and array of needs. Supporting Anglicare’s work with our finances and prayers is a great step.

Our experience at Street T has also taught us the profound importance of human connection. 

While a bowl of porridge can warm an empty belly, it takes a smile and conversation to warm a human heart. 

Is someone you already know having a hard time? Could someone you regularly pass by benefit from some acknowledgement and interest? Over time, these simple actions can make a huge difference. And not just for them, but also for you!

In this short ABC article, two of the three people profiled, who have experienced homelessness, are regular and treasured members of Street T, Mary and Tian.

By clicking on their name or picture, you can read a little more about Tian and Mary, some of our neighbours in need.

And if you’re able, feel free to volunteer at Street T, to join our team of Street Chefs, or to attend our Homelessness Week service (August 4, from 12.30-1.15pm).

In Christ, 

Rob Elder
Community Chaplain