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A Night of Challenges, Hope, and Resilience: A Raw Look at Community Work

This week offered a sobering reminder of the complexities of community work.

Kurilpa BBQ Cut Short:

Nick and I arrived at Kurilpa for the Greens' BBQ only to encounter the aftermath of a large fight. Thankfully, no one was injured, but the situation prompted a safety-conscious cancellation by the Greens – a completely understandable decision.

Volatile Times at Kurilpa:

This incident highlights the recent volatility at Kurilpa. While many residents received housing, a new influx has arrived. Unfortunately, some newcomers are not respecting the space, engaging in illegal activity and antisocial behavior. This has resulted in slashed tents, destroyed belongings, and a general sense of unease.

Sharing the Realities:

We strive to portray the positive aspects of our work, but transparency is also important. Tonight, we shed light on the raw realities faced by those we serve.


Helping Doni Find Hope:

Leaving Kurilpa, we received a message from Doni, a former resident who recently secured housing. Despite his new accommodation, he was facing extreme hardship – no food, limited resources, and unanswered calls for help from other organizations. Nick and I met Doni, provided a grocery voucher and dinner, and recorded a powerful 45-minute podcast segment about his life experiences, incarceration, homelessness, and the challenges of adjusting to housing after years on the streets. Doni's story, a snippet of which we'll share in the comments, is a powerful testament to the human spirit. The full podcast episode will be released later this week.



Searching for a Missing Friend:

Concerned about the well-being of a regular at Musgrave Park who had also been targeted by theft and vandalism, I searched for her but came up empty. This heightened the anxiety of another resident, prompting us to search the riverbank.


A Changing Landscape:

While searching, I revisited the site where I had previously set up a tent for someone in need. The dramatic decline in the area's condition, captured in before-and-after photos, served as a stark reminder of the constant change within the homeless community.



Building Anew:

The recent housing placements have resulted in a significant shift in the Musgrave Park population. The established community spirit needs to be rebuilt. We remain committed to providing immediate needs, while also guiding individuals towards addressing underlying issues like substance abuse and mental health. Collaboration is key – together, we can rebuild this community and ensure access to housing for those in need.


On a Positive Note:

We finished the night with a substantial bread and vegetable donation to the Community Plus+ West End Community House pantry. Just before arriving home, I received news that the woman I was searching for had returned home safely – a welcome relief.

This week exemplified the multifaceted nature of community work. Challenges exist, but so does hope. With unwavering dedication and collaboration, we can continue to make a positive impact.

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