A group of dedicated music lovers have come together to help raise funds and awareness of homelessness in Margaret River.
The ‘Gimme Shelter’ team are planning to host a number of fundraising events with the first being a live music concert held at the River Hotel in February 2019.
The idea and the passion from a talented group of locals organising this concert is fantastic. I am blown away by the generosity of the businesses and musicians who are supporting this event and I am really looking forward to it.
- Katie Gray, Just Home
Led by local musician and actor Craig Mathieson, who himself has experienced the harsh reality of homelessness, the event will be an evening of fun and great music provided by some very well-known and exceptionally talented local musicians.
All funds raised will be donated to Just Home Margaret River to provide support to individuals and families experiencing homelessness and housing stress.
Katie Gray, Housing Advocacy Officer for Just Home Margaret River said that she was delighted that the ‘Gimme Shelter’ team were helping to raise awareness and funds for homelessness.
“Just Home is volunteer run and managed, with just my 15 hours as the housing officer being the only paid position,” she said.
“We desperately need the financial help to continue supporting more than 50 people who have seen us since opening our doors in July last year.
“There is increasing demand for support, as housing costs continue to rise more people find themselves experiencing housing stress and homelessness.
“The idea and the passion from a talented group of locals organising this concert is fantastic.
“I am blown away by the generosity of the businesses and musicians who are supporting this event and I am really looking forward to it.
“It is a great opportunity to bring the community together to learn about the increases in local homelessness, the causes and how we can join in solidarity to support those struggling and create affordable housing options in the future”.
The Gimme Shelter team are grateful to the The River Hotel who have already jumped on board to help this important cause, but much more assistance is required to help make this event a success.
“The River are excited to be involved in this worthwhile cause and to provide support through our great live music venue and we encourage any businesses who think they can help, to get on board,” Phil Thompson , co-owner of The River said.
The line up and full event details will be released soon, and any local businesses or individuals who would like to support the event can contact Craig Mathieson on 0481 480 675 or email craig@justhome.org.au