Janette Van Santen checks out the new shower facilities. 27681 Picture: Luke Plummer
HILLS homeless can now access a public shower at Belgrave’s Tin Shed.
The shower was built with a $3000 grant from Lyster Ward councillor Samantha Dunn’s ward fund.
Support agency Mission Impossible leases the council-owned centre. Until now it had no hot water.
The nearest public shower was a Wantirna facility available between 9am and 12.30pm each Friday.
The Tin Shed shower will be available on Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays between 11.30am and 3pm.
The facility is aimed at the hills homeless, but is open to anyone in need.
Mission Impossible manager Teena Lee was unsure how many people the shower would attract.
“I know there are a lot of people in need, but what that would equate to we’re not sure,” she said.
“It’s amazing how many people live in their cars or camp out in the forest.”
Ms Lee said people in financial crisis may have a roof over their head, but no electricity.
“So they only have cold water,” she said.
She also expects people with mental health problems to use the service.
“Families tire of supporting them and they end up with financial difficulties,” she said.
“They need support and encouragement.”
Cr Dunn said the service would particularly benefit those seeking employment.
“You’re never going to get anywhere if you’re not presentable,” she said.
“Whether it’s right or not, that’s the way it is. This is a practical, on the ground way to help.”
Cr Dunn will officially open the shower at the Tin Shed, 1623 Burwood Highway, Belgrave, from 5pm today (Tuesday 10 March). More information is available by calling 9754 1700 or visiting the centre during the hours above.
