Opening Doors

Program Objective

UnitingCare Harrison's 'Opening Doors' program is part of a state-wide effort to make it easier for people experiencing or at risk of homelessness to access assistance. By simply calling free of charge 1800 825 955 anywhere in Victoria, people can access their closest 'Opening Doors' service 24 hours a day.

UnitingCare Harrison's 'Opening Doors' program is linked with four other 'Opening Doors' programs strategically placed throughout the Eastern Metropolitan Region. The benefits of the 'Opening Doors' program are that people who are homeless are given a streamlined service response. A new assessment tool means that suitable accommodation and support options are based on clients assessed risk / need levels.

'Opening Doors' staff can access state wide vacancy registers, which provide an up to date list of all the vacancies (both support and housing) both in the Eastern Region and state wide.

Program Philosophy

To provide timely and effective access to homelessness and social housing services to people seeking assistance.

Criteria

• Homeless or at risk of homelessness

Catchment Area

UnitingCare Harrison is located in the Knox municipality and is able to provide direct assistance or referral as appropriate for those who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.

Time / Days of Operation

Monday to Friday, 9am - 5pm

Cost

No Cost.

Referrals to the Program

Self referral

Activities / Services of the Program

• Assessment of need
• Referral to specialist services (e.g. family violence)
• Referral to support and crisis accommodation vacancies