A Launceston charity that bounced back after being robbed of its copper pipes last month has secured $100,000 in funding to expand its services for the homeless.
Shekinah House, which has provided more than 8,800 meals to vulnerable Tasmanians since 2018, will receive the funding through the 2025-26 Tasmanian Budget.
The organisation was forced to cancel its weekly Sunday dinner last month after thieves stole copper pipes from its premises, leaving the facility without water or toilet facilities.
Liberal Member for Bass, Rob Fairs, said the funding would allow the charity to upgrade and expand its services.
“Since 2014 Shekinah House has supported Tasmanians who need it most by providing practical services and supports, including food relief,” Fairs said.
“This Budget delivers on the things that matter, with $100,000 invested in Shekinah House to upgrade and expand services for the homeless and disadvantaged.”
Shekinah House founder Louise Cowen welcomed the funding announcement.
“It is such a wonderful affirmation of the hard work our volunteers do each and every week to alleviate some of the hardship and suffering of some of our most vulnerable community members,” Cowen said.
“This investment in our work also means our amazing team will be able to concentrate our future fundraising efforts towards raising the deposit for the purchase of a building to be able to offer accommodation services.”
Independent Member for Bass, Rebekah Pentland, said the funding was a meaningful step in helping Shekinah House do more for people in crisis.
“Homelessness is not a headline, it’s a human experience, and organisations like Shekinah House are on the frontline every day offering dignity, support and hope,” Pentland said.
The charity currently relies on more than 50 volunteers and has provided 2,750 showers and 2,700 loads of washing since opening these facilities in recent years.
The funding is in addition to a $10,000 grant provided through the Tasmanian Community Food Relief Grants Program 2025.
