Homelessness Week, Family Reconnection and Digital Support

3rd – 7th August 2026

This week at Fletcher Street Cottage we marked Homelessness Week by raising awareness, strengthening support for women and celebrating the power of connection and community. Here's a snapshot of what happened.

Highlights

• This week we recognised Homelessness Week, joining organisations across Australia to raise awareness of homelessness and advocate for better outcomes for people experiencing housing insecurity, including an Information Desk and daily guided tours. It was an opportunity to highlight the growing need in our community while continuing to work collaboratively towards lasting solutions.
• We said a heartfelt goodbye to our counselling placement student Tshana, who has been a valued member of the Fletcher Street Cottage team. Throughout her placement, Tshana applied her skills with compassion and enthusiasm, making a meaningful contribution to participants and our service. We thank her for all her hard work and wish her every success in the future.
• One participant in a vulnerable situation was reunited with his family in Europe after Fletcher Street Cottage helped reconnect him with loved ones. Acting as an intermediary, we were able to support communication across continents, helping him rebuild family connections and create a pathway towards greater stability.
• Our new Anxiety Busting Course began in Women's Space this week. The six-week experiential program was booked out and provides women with practical tools, strategies and resources to better understand and manage anxiety in a safe and supportive environment.
• As part of Homelessness Week, former Fletcher Street Cottage Assistant Manager Maddi joined Rhiannon from Women's Health Northern Rivers for a special Women's Space session. Together they made nutritious bliss balls while sharing practical recipes, wellbeing information and ideas to support women through challenging times.
• A huge thank you to Device Trader, who generously donated a number of digital devices for people accessing our service. Access to technology is increasingly essential for applying for housing, employment, government support and staying connected with family and services. Donations like these provide practical opportunities for people to rebuild their lives.

‍About Fletcher Street Cottage

Fletcher Street Cottage is a community hub in the heart of Byron Bay, providing essential support for locals in need. Our services include nutritious meals, access to showers and laundry, advocacy, health and wellbeing programs, and creative initiatives like Women’s Space and Art Space, all designed to help people move toward stability and self sufficiency. With the support of our volunteers, partners and donors, we continue to make a difference every day.

Photo: Liver Clinic at Fletcher Street Cottage