MEDIA RELEASE - Pets and People: A Different Look at Homelessness
This Homelessness Week (Monday 4 August – Sunday 10 August), Parramatta Mission and partners across the Uniting Church are shining a light on the deep bond between people experiencing homelessness and their pets.
Media Release
Monday, 4 August, 2025
Homelessness Week 2025
This Homelessness Week (Monday 4 August – Sunday 10 August), Parramatta Mission and partners across the Uniting Church are shining a light on the deep bond between people experiencing homelessness and their pets. The campaign aims to challenge public perceptions and remind the community that everyone deserves connection, comfort, and care.
As part of the #Paws4Change campaign, heartwarming portraits and personal stories of people and their animal companions are being shared across social media throughout the week. The campaign is a collaboration between the Uniting Church Synod of NSW and ACT, Parramatta Mission, Wesley Mission, Wayside Chapel, and The Bill Crews Foundation, aimed at raising awareness and reducing the stigma around homelessness.
“Paws4Change helps people see the humanity and dignity of those who are often overlooked,” said Rev. Geoff Smith, CEO of Parramatta Mission. “The bond between people and their pets is powerful. For many who are experiencing homelessness, that relationship offers comfort, safety and a deep sense of connection when everything else may feel uncertain or out of reach.”
Photo and interview opportunities are available on request throughout the week at Parramatta Mission, offering personal insights into the lived experience of homelessness — from sleeping in cars to couch surfing, or surviving in overcrowded and insecure housing.
Community Hub Day – Wednesday 6 August, 10AM – 1PM, 119 Macquarie St, Parramatta
Parramatta Mission will also host a Community Hub Day on Wednesday 6 August, offering a safe, welcoming space for people experiencing or at risk of homelessness to access a wide range of free services and supports all in one place.
Guests will be able to receive:
- Health checks
- Identification and documentation assistance
- Food support and warm meals
- Blankets and donated essential items
- Information and referrals from a range of local service providers
“At Parramatta Mission, we see ourselves as a family — a place of belonging for anyone doing it tough,” said Rev. Smith. “Our focus is on building relationships, not just delivering services. People need more than a bed for the night — they need to be known, respected, and supported on their journey.”
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, more than 122,000 people are experiencing homelessness in Australia. While rough sleeping is the most visible form, it accounts for only around 6% of cases. Most people are living in temporary, insecure, or overcrowded conditions — a silent and growing crisis that affects individuals, families, and communities across the country.
For more information visit homelessnessweek.uca.org.au
MEDIA ENQUIRIES / PHOTO & INTERVIEW REQUESTS:
Jo Maloney
Mobile: 0438 092 537
Email: jom@nswact.uca.org.au