New Year, New Hope, Community Connections

January 2026

This month at Fletcher Street Cottage, we’ve welcomed the new year with stories of resilience, community generosity and meaningful partnerships that continue to change lives. Here’s a snapshot of what’s been happening.

Highlights

• Impact Story: A man who accessed our services has now found private accommodation. With advocacy and ongoing support, he was able to overcome barriers and work with community members to secure stable housing. This outcome reflects the power of consistent, person-centred support.
• Resilience Story: A service user received guidance to build his independence by learning to navigate MyGov and online banking. These new skills enabled him to secure temporary and emergency accommodation on his own. Fletcher Street Cottage aims to empower individuals through opportunities for learning, connection and transformation.
• A heartfelt thank you to the Byron Bay Rotary Club, a proud supporter of Fletcher Street Cottage. Their generosity, along with the contributions of many organisations and individuals, ensures we can continue providing essential support to vulnerable people in our community.
• We are deeply grateful to our volunteer Jacky, who has been helping seniors and participants with their digital devices. The diverse skills and experience of our volunteers allow us to offer comprehensive support while fostering connection and understanding within the community.
• Happy January birthday to our Cottage Keeper Amanda. Since 2022, her dedication, organisation and care have helped create a space where people feel safe and respected. Her contribution continues to have a lasting impact on many lives.
• Our partnership with We Are Mobilise has enabled us to support several participants in securing or maintaining accommodation between December and January. Collaborations like this strengthen our ability to reduce housing insecurity and create sustainable solutions for the people we support.

About Fletcher Street Cottage

Fletcher Street Cottage is a community hub in the heart of Byron Bay, providing essential support for people experiencing hardship. Our services include nutritious meals, access to showers and laundry, advocacy, health and wellbeing programs, and creative initiatives like Women’s 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: Amanda Peters, Cottage Keeper