The Bass Coast Winter Shelter is one step closer to becoming reality, with 44 local volunteers now fully trained and ready to support this vital community initiative.

Organised by the Interchurch Council of Phillip Island, the shelter will provide evening meals, safe overnight accommodation and a place of connection for people experiencing homelessness across the region.

Behind the scenes, volunteers have already begun supporting key operational areas such as administration, co-ordination, accounts and training. Once the shelter opens, the remaining volunteers will take on frontline roles, including driving and providing general support across three evening shifts per night.

Volunteers recently completed comprehensive, face-to-face training covering topics such as homelessness, trauma-informed care, mental health, shelter operations and safety protocols - ensuring the team is well-equipped to provide compassionate, informed support.

Trained winter shelter volunteer Sandra Dentry says, "I volunteer at Phillip Island Community and Learning Centre (PICAL) and have seen how much need there is here on the island. Many people are struggling to make ends meet and it can happen so quickly.

"There are a variety of people experiencing homelessness here, but unlike the city it's hidden," Sandra said.

"I often meet women, just like me. We are all vulnerable, anyone of us could experience homelessness in our lifetime.

"The volunteer training was great. It really did confirm the need for a winter shelter in our region."

An additional 37 people have registered their interest in volunteering, a further show of local support for the shelter's mission. A final training session will soon be held for those individuals.

"It's a necessity"

Michael, a Phillip Island resident who has been experiencing homelessness since September last year, knows firsthand how urgently this shelter is needed.

"It wasn't a crisis or a major event. I had a good job but just couldn't find a rental that would accept me and my dog, Toast," he explains.

"It wasn't about money - it was about availability and suitability. I'm living in my car now and doing my best to stay respectful and move around."

On the shelter, Michael is clear.

"It's a borderline necessity. Homelessness isn't always caused by crisis. Sometimes, it's just the harsh reality of the housing market today."

Launch

Planning for the inaugural Bass Coast Winter Shelter was for a June 1 launch. However, this date will be pushed out, as securing the necessary planning and building permits is proving more complex and time-consuming than expected.

Once operational, the shelter will provide up to three nights of accommodation each week during June, July and August in Cowes.

The program will be open to guests from across the Bass Coast region, with all guests assessed for suitability to ensure safety and wellbeing for all involved.

To bring the shelter to life this winter, organisers are now calling on the community to help raise the final $8000 needed to reach the $20,000 target.

Nearly $12,000 has already been pledged through generous community donations.

"Since announcing the shelter, we've been overwhelmed by the generosity of our community," said Project Co-ordinator Wendy Elson.

"People have stepped forward to volunteer, donate and lend support in every way imaginable."

A local philanthropist from Wonthaggi has donated $3700 toward essential permits.

PICAL has provided a trailer for daily operations and other donations have helped purchase bedding and supplies.

Financial support has also come from Housing Matters Bass Coast, St John's Uniting Church, the Baptist Church of Cowes, St Philip's Anglican Church, the Lions Club of Phillip Island and many others.

"This is a true community effort," Wendy added.

"Now we're reaching out to everyone - every dollar helps. Your donation, no matter the size, will go directly to essentials like food and heating. Together, we can make a real difference this winter."

To donate or learn more, visit: www.basscoastwintershelter.wordpress.com