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The winter chill has hit Sydney and that means even tougher nights for people who sleep rough. Whilst many Sutherland Shire locals may not be aware of it, The Salvation Army says homelessness is an issue in the area, affecting more people that most realise.

“Here at our Shire Salvos Miranda food relief and assistance centre, we often have to modify the food hampers that we distribute to accommodate for people who sleep rough,” says Miranda Mission Leader, Salvation Army Officer David Godkin.

“People sleep in car-parks, camp in bushland areas, if they have a car they will sleep in that, or when it gets really cold and they’re sleeping rough, many will ride the trains to get some sleep in a relatively warm and safe environment.”

This week, two local Salvos, Jason Franklin and Mike Salomo, set up their annual ‘Beanies and Blankets Stall’ at Shire Salvos Miranda, blessing locals in need with beautiful hand-made beanies, blankets and donated warm jackets.

Jason said the Beanies and Blankets Ministry started one cold winter night around 2012 when he commented how cold it was. "My wife responded by reminding me to be thankful that we were in a house and not living on the streets." Jason took action, and now, every year he gathers the beautifully handmade beanies and blankets, "made with love from the ladies and supporters of Shire Salvos" and warm clothing from local supporters to be distributed amongst those in need throughout winter. One man, who was experiencing homelessness, was thrilled with a good quality winter coat from the stall.

One of the people who knits for the Salvos, Lee, said that knitting helped with her arthritis and she loves to support people in need and those who are homeless. This year she knitted 100 beanies in various sizes – what a champion!

Shire Salvos Miranda is located in the heart of the Sutherland Shire and assists people in need with emergency assistance, alcohol and other drug counselling, case-management, free Moneycare financial counselling, and the distribution of free fresh food and grocery items. Once a week, on a Tuesday evening, One Meal provides a hot meal at the centre which allows people the chance to enjoy a hearty meal in the company of others.

“Our friends who we walk alongside here at Shire Salvos Miranda have many different needs,” says David. “Of course, there are physical, material needs – like the need for nutritious food, the need for assistance with dealing with agencies or housing issues. But a deeper need is one of connection and friendship.

“We aim to meet those needs in an inviting space where all are welcome and all belong.”