After much anticipation we were excited to start welcoming residents into our new Audrey Rainsford Supportive Housing Units in Carlton on 3 May 2022. Wintringham is now managing the property on behalf of the Victorian Government (Homes Victoria), and providing housing support for the 60 new residents.
The Homelessness & Housing Support (HHS) Team carefully reviewed all the nominations and allocated apartments, describing it as particularly exciting for the team when the first removalist truck arrived.
“In the first week we moved ten people in over three days, and in the second week, we moved in eight people across the same period,” said Cassandra, Wintringham Coordinator Homelessness & Housing Support.
“This was a monumental effort achieved through team work, with Audrey Rainsford staff working alongside the 'Homelessness to a Home' program workers and our Recreation team to try and provide as smooth a transition as possible for the residents.”
The move-in was a busy period for all, including staff who put in great effort to make the building feel as homely and comfortable as possible for residents. “I have been really proud of all the Wintringham teams that have worked across this process,” says Cassandra.
Four weeks on and the residents have settled into their new homes and are adjusting to the building, the Audrey Rainsford staff and concierge. In addition, residents are enjoying familiarising themselves with the area, learning about their new neighbourhood and participating in recreation activities facilitated by the on-site recreation team. Residents are connecting through regular groups and outings including afternoon teas, art and cooking workshops, table tennis on our rooftop garden, and bus trips like the recent visit to the You Yangs.
One of our residents Elizabeth says, “The program has been a lifeline, and my well-being has improved enormously since securing housing. I am now looking to the future, and have enrolled in a creative writing course, I am hoping to one day write a book about my journey.”
See here Elizabeth’s musical tribute to Wintringham here. And see Elizabeth in her new home pictured above.
A tremendous effort to everyone involved in this life changing milestone for our clients. We're proud to be making such a positive contribution to the lives of our newest residents.
View previous news here.