Homelessness
On this page…
What We Do
Anchor is the first port of call for people experiencing homelessness.
Our Assistance
Anchor’s assistance for people experiencing homelessness ranges from information and referrals, to helping people transition to long-term, sustainable housing.
We work with people wherever they are on their housing journey, including rough sleepers, people needing food assistance, and those seeking permanent accommodation.
Our services are available to people from all ages and stages of life. We also offer extra support to help people get back on track including referrals to ancillary services.
Opening Doors
Join hands to support some of our community’s most vulnerable people.
EMERGENCY
Contact numbers
For out of hours homelessness assistance please call 1800 825 955.
If you are experiencing family violence please call Safe Steps on 1800 015 188.
For emotional support please call Lifeline on 13 11 14.
Local support
The Opening Doors framework is part of the Victorian Homelessness system. It works by offering access points based on your location, to help those in need find housing support. You can find you closest access point by calling 1800 825 955.
Alternatively, you can contact Anchor’s Homelessness Support team who may be able to assist you. Please call to arrange an appointment on 03 9760 6400.
Service areas
| Chirnside Park | Warburton | Mt Dandenong | Wandin North |
| Christmas Hills | Launching Place | Mt Evelyn | Warburton |
| Coldstream | Lilydale | Silvan | Woori Yallock |
| Healesville | Montrose | Wandin | Yarra Glen |
| Kalorama | Mooroolbark | Wandin East | Yarra Junction |
Transitional Housing & Support
For many people, homelessness is unexpected and sudden.
Three Steps Away from Homelessness
The Turning Point
In 2016–17, 46.4% of Anchor clients had not been homeless in the 6 months prior to accessing our services.
CASE STUDY
Jane's Story
Jane* is a young woman who had been a victim of family violence and needed a new home. With Anchor’s assistance, she found and secured a private rental property, but needed assistance get herself set up.
Anchor’s Private Rental Brokerage provided rent in advance as well as some funding for basic household items. Additionally, the worker and Jane* visited the Eastern Emergency Relief Network and were given some furniture and linen.
Jane* stated that she was very thankful to Anchor for the assistance provided and is now looking forward to continuing her education and setting goals for the future.
“I am now looking forward to continuing my education and setting goals for the future”
*Names have been changed to protect the identities.
Anchor’s Rapid Response Program
Anchor prioritises the immediate safety and shelter needs of rough sleepers.
Outreach Program
Anchor’s Rapid Response team, together with our community partners, runs an assertive outreach program prioritising immediate safety and shelter needs of rough sleepers, while working to building on-going rapport. Subsequent visits focus on establishing further health or mental health needs, working with each individual to progressively receive more relevant services over time.
Report a rough sleeping location
In partnership with the Yarra Ranges Council, as well as The Salvation Army, we work together in support of the most urgent needs of rough sleepers.
You can help by reporting your location to the Yarra Ranges Council, who will then advise our team so we can provide a safe and supportive response for those in need.
Make a report online by clicking the button below.
