Ep 72) Bridge It - Community & Connection is key to people’s Lives 🏠

<p>Please show your support at https://www.bridgeit.org.au &nbsp;</p> <p>Two Natural Ladies have an inspiring chat with Carla Reynes founder of Bridge It. Carla has worked in the homelessness sector for 17 years both in the UK and in Australia and in 2018 co-founded a not-for-profit social enterprise, Home Share Melbourne. In July 2021 Carla launched her own charity, Bridge It which continues the work of Home Share Melbourne as well as offering two residential programs for women in St Kilda. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p> <p>Jo &amp; Vicki start by finding out how the two residential programs work:&nbsp;</p> <ul> <li>The Sanctuary is an 8 apartment property in St Kilda, beautifully renovated to high standards. This program is for women over 25 and is really targeted to women middle aged plus who are the fastest growing homeless group in Australia. The aim: – to create a community of women living with a psychological &amp; psychiatric issue. &nbsp;&nbsp;<br> <br> With an onsite mentor and links to many other support networks, this is potentially a forever housing option. With support with mental health, employment and a stable place to live the aim is to create a community feel where true friendships can be fostered. &nbsp;&nbsp;For some this safe environment may allow some of these women to transition into one bedroom apartments – for others The Sanctuary will be their forever home.<br> &nbsp;</li> <li>The Cocoon has a therapeutic aspect: A 19 apartment property with beautiful high quality housing at an affordable price (the women give 30% of income). &nbsp;&nbsp;This is designed for young women. Another safe housing option for women with additional issues, mainly psychological and psychiatric disabilities.<br> <br> Included will be, therapies a sensory garden and community building. The idea is with early intervention after a 12 month period, these young women will be ready to live independently. &nbsp;Two Natural Ladies discuss with Carla, where her ideas came from. And after almost 20 years in the industry Carla has worke