MCEC RECOGNISES NATIONAL HOMELESSNESS WEEK

MCEC is proud to acknowledge their long-standing relationship with Launch Housing this National Homelessness Week taking place from August 1-7, aiming to raise awareness of homelessness in Australia and the importance of social housing as a long-term solution.

As two organisations that are proudly Melbourne, MCEC’s collaboration with Launch Housing provides opportunity for people experiencing homelessness through workplace giving, in kind support, fundraising initiatives and an At-Risk Youth Employment Program.

Although MCEC has been a long-term supporter of Launch Housing, last year MCEC signed a formal three-year partnership, marking MCEC’s official and ongoing commitment to their vital work. We’re already seen the benefits of this partnership with MCEC employing three people in 2022 as part of the Launch Housing Youth Foyers Program.

There is a longstanding history between MCEC and Launch Housing. The land that our buildings stand on today was home to Hanover’s New Gordon House from 1976-1994 (a proud precursor to Launch Housing.)

This year, Launch Housing's theme for National Homelessness Week is a safe home for every child, as sadly there over 19,000 children aged 0-14 who are homeless in Australia on any given night.

Launch Housing is pioneering early interventions to build brighter futures for children, giving them the safety and security of a home, access to support services, and removing barriers to education.

Over 18,000 children aged 0-14 were assisted by Launch Housing and other Specialist Homelessness Organisations in Victoria in 2020-21, and this week, they are launching an Australian-first supportive housing initiative, providing 60 permanent homes for women and children at risk of homelessness.

MCEC acting CEO, Helen Fairclough said the partnership between Launch Housing and MCEC is one of crucial importance.

"Homelessness is an issue we can’t ignore in Melbourne, and being in the heart of the city, MCEC is passionate about playing its part in helping.

“MCEC is committed to assisting with funds and resources to help Launch Housing reach those who need help the most in our community.”

Chief Executive Launch Housing, Bevan Warner said “Launch Housing is an independent community organisation passionately committed to ending homelessness in Melbourne.

“By combining direct action with advocacy, research, and innovation, they’re driving meaningful and widespread change and creating achievable solutions to end Melbourne’s homelessness crisis.

“They provide life-changing housing, support, education and employment services to thousands of vulnerable Victorians experiencing the trauma of homelessness.”

If you or someone close to you has been impacted by homelessness and needs support, please reach out to launch housing.org.au or freecall 1800 825 955.

ABOUT MCEC

Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) is the home of unconventional. At MCEC we do things a little differently. We bring fresh ideas and imagination to every event. We happily turn concepts on their head to make each experience momentous. We welcome events of all shapes and sizes, from meetings and conferences to exhibitions, concerts, and galas, whether in-person, virtual or hybrid. And our city is our inspiration. Melbourne is on show at MCEC – in the architecture and design, food and hospitality, location, and views. Discover the difference at MCEC.