CatholicCare Tasmania will receive $8M to build new homes as part of a $30M Federal Government housing package for the Hobart area.

“This funding is going to four providers with shovel-ready projects,” said Independent Member for Denison, Andrew Wilkie, “It’s a way to get roofs over people’s heads as soon as possible.”

CatholicCare will build 55 dwellings in Claremont for housing priority applicants.

“We’ll house about 120 people and many are homeless now or at risk of homelessness and in great need,” said CatholicCare Executive Director Tim Gourlay.

A unique feature of the development is a community wellbeing Hub which is an initiative of CatholicCare’s Social Impact Program. The Hub will facilitate social connection by providing a shared place for residents and support them to engage with organisations that provide various social and wellbeing programs and activities. Events and services will also be brought to the Hub.

“This project will have social impact at its heart,” said CatholicCare’s Social Impact Program Director Belinda Clarke, “The vision is to contribute to the growth of vibrant and hopeful communities that value the dignity and worth of each person.

“We want these dwellings to be more than just houses. From the beginning we will work with the community to co-create spaces, initiatives and activities that will enhance the wellbeing of individuals, families and communities,” Belinda said.