The two-year program saw 61 Syrian and Iraqi refugees take up temporary residence in 35 empty units at St Vincent’s Heath Services Eltham site with support services provided by CatholicCare.
The group was among the Federal Government’s intake of extra 12,000 Syrian and Iraqi refugees fleeing war, but the program’s announcement in 2016 was met with opposition by far-right groups, with One Nation Senator Pauline Hanson labelling the project “an absolute disgrace”.
However, the protestors were outnumbered by locals who came out in support of the refugees – and it’s certainly paid off.
Most of the new arrivals have now settled into the community after finding new homes, jobs and schools with 14 over-55 residents staying on now that the village has reverted into seniors’ housing.
Another fantastic example of providers doing what they can to support the most vulnerable people in our community.
