Brisbane Relief Hub opens the doors to its new home
With a legacy of more than 100 years of supporting people in need, the Brisbane Relief Hub has moved to a new location that will improve its ability to meet rising demand.
While staying centrally located in Fortitude Valley, the Brisbane Relief Hub’s new space on Brunswick St has been recently renovated and provides an indoor dining area that encourages social connection and is weatherproof.
Wesley Mission Queensland CEO Jude Emmer said the Brisbane Relief Hub (the Hub) was a cornerstone service of Wesley Mission Queensland, with its history dating back to 1907 when it was known as the Central Methodist Mission.
Pictured: CEO Jude Emmer alongside the Brisbane Relief Hub and Wesley Mission Queensland team
"This move represents a significant step for the service, with the upgraded building enhancing our capacity to respond to increasing community need, while creating a more sustainable and welcoming environment," Jude said.
Sadly, we now see up to 150 clients a day, with new groups of people in need emerging due to cost of living pressures.
"These people are employed, sometimes with two jobs, and even mortgages, but the combined increases in electricity, food, petrol and interest rates has found them needing services like the Hub for the first time."
Brisbane Relief Hub Manager Penny Morris said the team was excited to welcome clients to a space that will improve their experience, giving them the respect and dignity they deserve
"The Hub provides more than food and basic essentials, it is an important place of connection and support for people in Brisbane doing it tough. They not only receive a meal, they are welcomed with a range of supports designed to help them get back on their feet," Penny said.
"With the help of our partners, we provide free haircuts, weekly mental health nurses, and through small grants we provide prescription vouchers, help with rental and bills arrears, and building budgeting skills through our financial resilience program.
"We also provide groups such as singing, board games and soon we will be running an art as therapy group."
Pictured: Artist Melanie McDonald @studioprovincal gifting a watercolour painting of the new Hub building
Penny said the Hub was being forced to be creative in its approach as it tries to meet increased demand.
"We are tracking well ahead of last year’s figures on all measures of assistance provided but we need to provide this assistance within our limited resources," Penny said.
"Cost of living pressures don’t only affect our clients, they affect community services such as ours trying to provide help on small budgets.
"Despite the challenges we continue to do whatever we can to help Brisbane’s vulnerable and marginalised people, and this new location strengthens that commitment."
The Brisbane Relief Hub is now located at 136 Brunswick St Fortitude Valley.
Help Queenslanders in your local community
Your support means we can continue showing up for those doing it tough. Donate or volunteer to make a difference today.