Kala Space, Brunswick East helps women find work by ending start times
Solving homelessness could begin with removing one simple aspect of a job. This Lygon St clothing hub is putting a theory into practice and supporting women in need.
North West
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A Brunswick East op-shop is attempting to change employment by removing a simple barrier.
Kala Space on Lygon St employs six women who are escaping domestic violence, facing homelessness or otherwise at risk and doesn’t lock in working hours.
Instead, workers are free to start and finish when they like and are paid for those hours worked.
Donna Stolzenberg founded the store through the National Homeless Collective and said she wanted to change the way employment works.
“It means they can navigate their pathway through homelessness and they won’t ever lose their job because of what’s going on outside of the store,” she said.
“We employ people are aren’t really ready for normal work but it means there’s no gap in the resume.”
Workers in the store are given a Myki that is topped up by the business to help them get to and from work.
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Grants and fundraising pays the rent and bills, meaning all money made is returned to wages.
“These women will suffer less from anxiety and depression because they have a purpose,” Ms Stolzenberg said.
Kala Space is opening a meditation space in October and is renovating a kitchen to allow for hospitality work.
It can be found at 50 Lygon St and is open 10am to 5pm Tuesday to Sunday.
Clothing donation times are advertised through Facebook.