Chances homeless support centre promised $1m by Labor, LNP in Mackay

A Mackay homeless support service will score a $1m injection of funds no matter which party wins the Queensland election, with the money being used to support its day-to-day operations.

With $1m pledged, Chances will be able to sustain its operation and potentially bring in more staff.

A Mackay homeless support charity will score a $1m injection of funding no matter which party wins the Queensland election.

The Australian Street Aid Project, known colloquially as Chances, feed people struggling with homelessness breakfast and lunch daily, and provides a safe space to hang out.

Chances founder and CEO Kayleigh Brewster said she had no idea it was being considered for an election commitment.

The LNP first promised the money before it was matched by Labor.

“We had a call from Amanda Camm’s office and they asked to meet us here on site,” Ms Brewster said.

“Nigel Dalton came with David Crisafulli and we took them on our a tour through the premises.”

After the tour, Mr Crisafulli and Mr Dalton decided to kick in the funding, according to Ms Brewster.

“This is really important because that’s where we struggle most,” Ms Brewster said.

“It will help us to finally have adequate levels staffing.”

Chances founder Kayleigh Brewster (left) said the LNP commitment from David Crisafulli (right) could not come at a better time.

Ms Brewster said in recent weeks more homeless have presented themselves to the service and she and her staff were struggling to keep up.

“We can’t help all of the needs of the people presenting at the moment,” she said.

Ms Brewster is also planning on establishing a clinic at their Drop-in centre at 1 Endeavour St, helping with both their clients general health and mental health.

“The most important thing is it will help reduce preventable deaths,” she said.

When contacted, Belinda Hassan said Labor would be matching the $1m commitment.

“It’s an extremely important service for our community,” Ms Hassan said.

“One that I actually donate weekly to myself.”

Labor candidate Belinda Hassan has matched the LNP commitment of $1m to Chances. Photo: Fergus Gregg

Ms Hassan said she was pleased regardless who won the election, Chances would be receiving the vital funding it needs.

“This time last year they were offering daily meals to 30 or 40 people,” Ms Hassan said.

“Right now that’s 80.

“The service that they’re providing is so important to make sure that those people have food, facilities and support on a daily basis.”

For Chances, the funding is desperately needed as Ms Brewster describes having to reduce staffing due to lack of funding at a time when the number of people needing support doubles.

“If the commitment comes to fruition it will give us a sense of security we’ve never had before,” Ms Brewster said.

“It couldn’t come at a better time for us.”

Fergus Gregg is a volunteer at Chances.