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Looking at homelessness from both sides of the tracks
I’m a proud staff member and supporter of the Haymarket Foundation. I am passionate about this work because I see myself in the eyes of the residents. You see, not so long ago, I was walking in their shoes. As a young person, I was bullied for being queer and ended up using drugs, then sleeping on trains because I…
Free glasses and eye checks
The Haymarket Foundation’s medical practice has done ‘pop-up’ eye checks for people experiencing homelessness. Over 25 eye examinations were carried out, including at the surgery on-site in Chippendale. While Australians are entitled to free eye checks under Medicare, non-residents – including refugees – are not. The Haymarket Foundation fundraises to support people equitably, including non-residents such as *Cyril, who is…
11 years in limbo
After almost 11 years, Deo, a refugee from Burundi, still remains in limbo. What does remain constant is his home of four years – the Haymarket Foundation’s crisis accommodation in Chippendale. “The Haymarket Foundation changed my life,” he says. “It’s been positive. While I still have problems, at least I know I have food and a place to stay.” He…
A warm welcome to our new CEO
The Haymarket Foundation is pleased to announce Gowan Vyse as the incoming CEO. Gowan has a wealth of experience in community development and in the public service, most recently as Manager, Social Policy and Programs at the City of Sydney, where she oversaw programs supporting people experiencing homelessness, refugees, asylum seekers, international students, LGBTIQ communities, First Nations people and people with…
A place for rest and recreation
Visits from a therapy dog, along with art classes are part of an ongoing activity program for people experiencing homelessness at The Haymarket Foundation. Puppy love: We are pleased to welcome Delta Therapy Dogs back to The Haymarket Foundation! Volunteer Michelle and her therapy dog Honey are making regular visits to our crisis accommodation in Chippendale, to spend time with…
A bright space to rebuild lives
The centrepiece of the Haymarket Foundation’s crisis accommodation in Chippendale has been given a fresh look, thanks to the help of volunteers. The large loungeroom, in the heritage-listed building, has been given a lick of paint, making it a more therapeutic space for people experiencing homelessness. The work was carried out during Volunteer Week. “My father died of COVID earlier…
‘Saving the world one can of baked beans at a time’
When people became homeless due to the floods, Vic knew how it felt not having a roof over your head. He became homeless at the height of his drug use, in-between periods of incarceration for theft. He became drug-free in his late 50s and got support through the Haymarket Foundation. Now the 71-year-old helps others get back on their feet….
A nurse with a big heart and commitment
Photo caption: The Haymarket Foundation medical practice’s nurse, Joana Atienza When Joana Atienza moved to Australia from the Philippines eight years ago, she never thought she would find herself working as a nurse again. “I was burnt out – I had been working with the poorest of the poor in rural areas in the north of the country and knew…
A good bed for a restful night’s sleep
When people come to the Haymarket Foundation’s crisis accommodation facility in Chippendale, they are usually grateful for a roof over their heads. Now their stay is more comfortable, with new mattresses in the bedrooms. “It means a lot to have these new mattresses,” says Johnathan, who slept rough before coming to the Haymarket Foundation. “They are comfortable, for a good…
A no-nonsense attitude, with a side-order of humour
A warm and considered approach: Quality Coordinator Valda Allen (left) with Acting CEO Gabi De Knock By Acting CEO Gabi De Knock When I first joined the Haymarket Foundation, like everyone, I was given an induction by Valda Allen. Compliance and safety were key – but her efficiency, diligence, warmth and courtesy were obvious. This was before vaccinations were available,…