Breakfast Program at Fletcher Street Cottage Wins Community Initiative of the Year Award
The Breakfast Program at Fletcher Street Cottage has been named the Community Initiative of the Year at Byron Shire Council’s 2024 Community Awards.
This accolade acknowledges Fletcher Street Cottage’s efforts to nourish and care for our community’s most vulnerable, serving over 22,000 breakfasts to Byron’s homeless since opening in early 2022.
The Breakfast Program offers free, nourishing meals to locals in need. Michael Lyon, Byron Shire Mayor, remarked at the Award Ceremony on August 6, “Fletcher Street Cottage 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.”
The dedication of Fletcher Street Cottage's breakfast team is evident in the impact of their work on Byron’s homeless. By providing high-quality meals, the program not only addresses food insecurity but also fosters a sense of dignity and connection among service users.
One service user shared: “I’d like to thank you for everything you do here at Fletcher Street Cottage. Your generosity keeps me fed and my clothes clean. I appreciate you.”
This success is not the result of a single effort. Steve Strang, the Breakfast Coordinator, accepted the award: "I’m humbled by what we have achieved, however, this is not a one-man job. 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."
Louise O’Connell, General Manager of Byron Community Centre and 2023 Community Member of the Year, stated, “This recognition is a testament not only to Fletcher Street Cottage but also to the community’s spirit. The cottage is a beacon of hope and sanctuary for those facing the harsh reality of homelessness.”
Breakfast is served each morning at 7am to 9am from Tuesday to Friday in the garden courtyard at Fletcher Street Cottage. Steve coordinates the breakfast service with the support of around 40 to 60 volunteers, who help to cook, take orders, serve and clean up.
Mayor Michael Lyon said, “Fletcher Street Cottage creates positive connections for those experiencing disadvantage. It also provides over 60 volunteers with the opportunity to serve our community and create connections themselves for the benefit of all stakeholders.”
The breakfast menu changes daily, using seasonal and locally sourced produce, with dishes including poached eggs with hash browns and greens, pancakes with mixed berries and a warming winter porridge which is a favourite during the cooler months.
The award recognition comes during National Homelessness Week, from August 5 to 11, with its theme: “Homelessness Action Now”. Community members can take action by donating, volunteering or participating in the Big Byron Sleepout on August 17.
Louise added, “Our mission goes beyond providing the basics, we strive to create a safe place where everyone feels seen and valued.”
A service user shared, “The work and services here at the cottage are invaluable. All the staff are without exception cheerful, competent, kind and caring. Byron is a better please for having the cottage.”
And another, “Since I have found the cottage I am not so lonely. It’s a wonderful place.”
To learn more about Fletcher Street Cottage and to donate, visit www.fletcherstreetcottage.com.au.
Byron Shire Council: Community Awards
These awards celebrate the outstanding contributions of individuals, groups, businesses and organisations that make Byron Shire a remarkable place to live.
Community Initiative of the Year – Breakfast service at Fletcher Street Cottage
Fletcher Street Cottage, in Byron Bay is a safe and welcoming place, providing breakfast for people experiencing homelessness. With more than 60 volunteers, Fletcher Street Cottage also provides access to showers, access to laundry services and office support.
Byron Community Centre
The Byron Community Centre is an independent not-for-profit organisation that provides essential services including meals, advocacy and counselling, as well as arts and social programs for the benefit of the whole community.
For more information please see: www.byroncentre.com.au.
Fletcher Street Cottage provides support and services for people at risk of homelessness, or already sleeping rough. For more information please see: www.fletcherstreetcottage.com.au. Opening Hours: Tuesday-Friday, 7am-12pm.
Breakfast Program
The Breakfast Program demonstrates the power of community collaboration, innovative ideas and dedicated individuals working together to make a lasting impact. 7am-9am, Tuesday-Friday, 18 Fletcher St, Byron Bay.