Housing

A significant driver in forming WCC in 2019, was a desire to respond to homelessness as a united body of churches in Whitehorse.  WCC planned a Winter Shelter program for 2020 using church buildings to house people experiencing homelessness (as part of Stable One’s Winter Shelter Network). Covid-19 impacted the plans, but the passion to respond to homelessness has not diminished.

During 2024-25, WCC is piloting a housing initiative in response to the area’s lack of affordable rental and social housing. WCC is  raising awareness and promoting using existing property for good. We encourage church members with spare rooms, granny flats, annexes, or investment properties to prayerfully consider housing people who cannot access accommodation through the commercial rental market. Low-income people, single women over 55, and victims of family abuse often struggle to find affordable, safe homes. A place to live can make a meaningful difference in their lives.

The program is inspired by the experiences of church members who have been renting out parts of their homes for many years. Their positive experiences and insights form the foundation of this initiative.

Support resources such as videos, case studies and advice from people with significant experience sharing rooms and self-contained parts of their homes are available. We can also share  stories of the life-changing impact the provision of housing can have on someone who needs a place to live.

WCC is partnering with local community service agencies: Crossway LifeCare, Stairway Church and Prison Network, who have clients needing housing. These organisations will identify and connect the available spaces with suitable clients and provide them with ongoing support. WCC does not have the resources and capacity to support people looking for housing and cannot respond to individual request for help.  

But nothing can start until people think, discuss and pray about sharing their property! This is not for everyone, and not all homes are suitable.

If you would like to learn more click the button below.