Men experiencing homelessness across Geelong will now have access to more emergency housing options.
Samaritan House has unveiled seven new environmentally sustainable, independent living units, with the help of a $500,000 grant from the Victorian government.
Samaritan House helps men sleeping rough in the Greater Geelong region by providing accommodation, an evening meal and ongoing support services.
The construction of seven new one-bedroom, prefabricated independent living units at the site will increase Samaritan House’s capacity by 50 per cent.
The units are designed to offer independent living for three to six months, with affordable rent to help men transition to longer-term social housing.
Local manufacturer FormFlow designed and installed the units from an innovative and sustainable prototype, working in partnership with Deakin University’s School of Architecture and the Built Environment.
The design reduces the impact on the environment by utilising off-site construction, natural ventilation, solar energy and water tanks. Native landscaping reduces irrigation needs.
The collaboration has enabled students undertaking apprenticeships in horticulture and landscaping at Gordon TAFE to gain practical experience working on site.
