Passages

Passages primary function is to act as a referral centre, however it also offers street present young people the opportunity to do practical things such as use a computer, do their laundry, or shower, or utilise kitchen facilities. Additionally, Passages conducts in house programs and activities such as healthy cooking, recreation, health/sexuality programs and art groups.

It is now named Bendat House after a major benefactor. The passages website is: www.vinnies.org.au/wa/2005-passages.cfm

Operating the centre. Operation of the centre is done in the context of building relationships with those who drop in, offering them practical assistance and support, while identifying needs and issues. These are commonly to do with homelessness and unemployment, but may also include with legal problems, health issues, Centrelink benefits, drug issues, prostitution, counselling, relationships and general day-to-day living.

Client contacts. There were over 21,000 visits in the first five years to 30 June 2004.  In the 12 months to 30 June 2004 Passages made 2,795 referrals to other specialist agencies.  

Location

22 Palmerston Street, Northbridge. (The centre was formerly located at 130 Aberdeen Street, Northbridge. A larger house was purchased as the number of clients exceeded the capacity of the first house).

Where it started

1996. In 1996 the Rotary International World President Louise Giay called a meeting in seven cities around the world to discuss ways to foster “urban peace” including dealing with homeless and drug-related issues. The Sydney Australia, meeting was attended by the then President of the Rotary Club of Perth David Reed.

1998. Under David Reed’s leadership the Club undertook a vast amount of research on the needs of youth in Perth. He was invited to join a Perth diocesan drug committee. In 1998, this led to the formation of a joint venture between the Society of St Vincent de Paul and the Rotary Club of Perth with support from the Anglican and Catholic Archdioceses of Perth, the Military and Hospitaller Order of the Knights of St Lazarus of Jerusalem and the St John of God Foundation. David Reed was elected Chairman of the joint venture. A resources centre was established in Perth, offering street-present young people the opportunity to feel safe and supported.

1999. The centre was officially opened by RI World President James Lacy on 11 May 1999. It is known as Passages and provides a passage to help transition from one life to another. Young people are helped to get off the streets and adopt safer and healthier lifestyles.

2000. Throughout the period, Rotarian David Reed has been continuously involved as Chairman of Passages. He realised that the project must be put on a sound financial footing and in the latter part of 2000 David chaired a fund raising project, raising enough funds to purchase the building and provide funds for its ongoing operation for a least three years.

Working Group Contact

David Reed (08) 9322 1182