Fletcher Street Cottage wins top community award

THE BREAKFAST Program at Fletcher Street Cottage has been named the 2024 Community Initiative of the Year at the recent Byron Shire Community Awards.

Since opening its doors in 2022, Fletcher Street Cottage has served over 22,000 nourishing breakfasts to locals in need or at risk of homelessness. The breakfast team aims to address food insecurity and foster a sense of dignity and connection among the locals.

Byron Shire mayor Michael Lyon said Fletcher Street Cottage provided an essential service.

“It provides people experiencing homelessness with a healthy and delicious breakfast, access to hot showers and laundry, and additional office support.

“The cottage is a welcoming and safe space for support and connection to meet everyday needs. It creates positive connections for those experiencing disadvantage and provides over 60 volunteers with the opportunity to serve our community and create connections for all stakeholders’ benefit.”

One service user said that the work and services at the cottage were invaluable.

“All the staff are without exception cheerful, competent, kind and caring. Byron is a better place for having the cottage,” they said.

Breakfast co-ordinator Steve Strang said he was humbled by the achievement.

“However, this is not a one-man job,” he said.

“We have an incredible team of volunteers and staff at the cottage who spend hours each day ensuring that we provide breakfasts that match the quality of any café in Byron Bay.”

The Byron Shire has the state’s largest cohort of rough sleepers, higher than the City of Sydney (2024 Street Count).

Fletcher Street Cottage breakfast is served by 40 to 60 volunteers each morning from 7am to 9am, Tuesday to Friday, in the garden courtyard.

Louise O’Connell, general manager of Byron Community Centre and 2023 Community Member of the Year, said the recognition was a testament to Fletcher Street Cottage and the community’s spirit.

“The cottage is a beacon of hope and sanctuary for those facing the harsh reality of homelessness.

“Our mission goes beyond providing the basics. We strive to create a safe place where everyone feels seen and valued.”

For more information, head to fletcherstreetcottage.com.au