Together, we’re ending homelessness
For more than 7,000 people experiencing homelessness in South Australia, the cold winter months are the most dangerous time of year.
But when you step up for Walk a Mile in My Boots, you’re reminding people doing it tough that they’re not alone.
Thanks to you, Hutt St Centre offers a place of connection and support where people at risk of or experiencing homelessness can find a warm welcome and the chance to rebuild their lives.
And, best of all, you’re ensuring our doors remain open for people when they need us most.
Bailey* never thought he would find himself homeless, especially in the middle of a brutal Adelaide winter.
He had a difficult childhood, moving frequently and living with his abusive stepfather. Eager to make his own way in the world, Bailey moved out and his future looked brighter. But when his long-term housemate ended up in jail, things got worse.
He was left with no where to go and winter was fast approaching.
“It all fell apart and I spent four months sleeping rough in Adelaide. It was cold, really cold. I found three blankets to keep with me when I was sleeping rough. And then one day there was a storm, so I had to move to escape the storm. I moved to the Franklin Street bus terminal.”
That winter, Bailey didn’t know where else to turn. Then he heard about Hutt St Centre.
“I was a bit nervous walking into Hutt St for the first time. I thought that I could’ve been rejected and turned away.”
Bailey started coming in for meals and to use the laundry. He was so grateful for the warmth and comfort that Hutt St provided.
“I started coming for breakfasts and lunches at Hutt St, and using the laundry on a few occasions too to wash my clothes. I got to have a hot shower after sleeping in the cold and rain – I was so glad to have a hot shower.”
A growing need for support
Times are tough – people right across South Australia are feeling the pressure from the cost of living crisis. We know this because visits to Hutt St Centre have grown by 15%*. It’s heartbreaking to think how many people are struggling in our community right now.
*All stats are sourced from Hutt St Centre's Annual Report FY23-24.
More than 7,428 people are experiencing homelessness in South Australia.^
South Australia has seen a 19% increase in homelessness since 2016.^
Around 58% of people are sleeping rough when they first visit Hutt St Centre.^^
Hutt St Centre has seen a 15% increase in visits for essential support.^^
The need for hot showers and bathroom facilities is up 13%.^^
The need for everyday essentials like warm clothing is up 86%.^^
The need for washing machines and clothes dryers is up 24%.^^
The need for medical care
is up by 26%.^^
I never really grieved when Mum passed away - I was caught up in everything else.”
Jordan’s* life changed forever when her mum passed away. At just twenty, she found herself on the streets, struggling with substance use and unable to cope with the weight of her loss.
Without a safe place to stay and no one to turn to, Jordan began sleeping rough, finding shelter wherever she could.
“In winter there was one time I slept in a park – but only for one night, I couldn’t handle the icy cold. I was staying in different people’s houses, and sleeping rough in abandoned toilets and houses to keep me out of the weather.”
When Jordan walked through the doors of Hutt St Centre, she didn’t know what to expect.
“I felt crusty walking into Hutt St for the first time because I hadn’t had a shower yet. But after that I felt awesome. It felt really welcoming, the workers at Hutt St were kind and friendly.”
Jordan was able to connect with her case manager, Libby, who supported her into a rehabilitation service, helping her leave the streets behind and begin her journey to recovery.
With Libby’s help, Jordan found a safe home where she could heal. Today, she’s reconnecting with her daughters and thriving in her first-ever job.
“Life is great for me now. My workplace loves me. My normal week now involves work, going shopping, and relaxing at home – just normal, everyday stuff. And seeing my babies.”
“Thank you for your help. With everything that Hutt St Centre does, it’s good to have people like that who help homeless fellas. It gives people like us hope and strength. They’re so kind. It’s awesome.”
Here’s how your fundraising makes a difference
Hutt St Centre’s vital health and wellbeing services, like healthy meals, hot showers and medical care, are funded entirely by the generous support of people like you.
Here’s a quick snapshot of what our Walk a Mile in My Boots community has made possible.
You kept our doors open for 40,504 visits from people seeking support.
You warmed hearts and bodies with 45,111 freshly cooked hot meals.
You gave care and comfort with 24,203 essential items, like clothes and bedding.
You restored a sense of dignity with 3,382 loads of clean washing.
You renewed health and hope with 2,351 medical check-ups.
Together, we have the power to make a life-changing difference.
“Often when people come into Hutt St Centre, they've had a really tough night. They're tired, hungry and stressed, so the least I can do is help bring them a smile while we figure out what they need. I love that we’re all working together to help people out of homelessness – and we couldn’t do it without you.”
– Paul, Wellbeing team member
