Chris

A Beacon of Hope: Phoenix Place and Orange Sky's Collaboration in Mackay

‍In the heart of Mackay, a powerful partnership between Phoenix Place and Orange Sky is making a significant difference in the lives of those experiencing homelessness. Chris, a dedicated support worker at Phoenix Place, recently shared insights into this collaboration and its impact on the community.

For nearly two years, Chris has been a regular volunteer at Orange Sky's community service events. His motivation is simple yet profound: "I just feel it's an opportunity where I can give back. There's a lot of people that need support and conversation, and I just take it as an opportunity to do that."

The collaboration between Phoenix Place and Orange Sky is multifaceted. The kitchen staff at Phoenix prepare meals, which are then served by volunteers at Orange Sky events. But it's more than just providing food. As Chris explains, "They do their washing here, they do their laundry. They're very appreciative of all the food they have. And just talk that conversation with them. It's somewhere for them to come and discuss what's happening in their lives."

This holistic approach to support is crucial, especially in the face of rising living costs. Chris notes with concern, "Groceries having doubled in the last 12 months. Their funding hasn't doubled. There's a lot of people who are in the system even and are really struggling. And that's very frustrating." This economic pressure makes the services provided by Phoenix Place and Orange Sky even more vital.

What stands out about this collaboration is the emphasis on human connection. It's not just about meeting physical needs, but also providing a space for interaction and community. "I think the people that come here, they feel, they interact. And it's somewhere for them to come. They get out of their normal day-to-day life," Chris observes. This opportunity for social interaction can be just as important as the practical services provided.

Chris's admiration for the work of Orange Sky is evident. He praises Lisa, who runs the organization, saying, "She gives and gives and gives. It's amazing." This spirit of generosity and dedication seems to be at the heart of both Phoenix Place and Orange Sky.

As for the future, Chris remains committed to his role in supporting the community. "I love my job as a support worker. I love it. And I love coming here to Orange Sky," he says with enthusiasm. His dedication, along with that of countless other volunteers and staff members, ensures that those experiencing homelessness in Mackay will continue to have access to not just practical support, but also compassion and community.

The collaboration between Phoenix Place and Orange Sky serves as a powerful example of how local organizations can work together to address complex social issues. By providing a combination of practical support and human connection, they're not just meeting immediate needs, but also helping to build a more compassionate and inclusive community in Mackay.