New manager for Fletcher Street Cottage to support Byron’s homeless

Homelessness hub Fletcher Street Cottage is a step towards reopening as the Byron Community Centre has announced the appointment of a new manager.

With over 30 years of experience in health and human services across private, government and community sectors, Jenny Ryan will oversee services for our community’s most vulnerable.

“I’m inspired by the great work being done at the Byron Community Centre and very grateful for the high level of volunteer contribution,” said Jenny. “The financial support from members of the community, to enable this valuable work, is also impressive. I hope that Fletcher Street Cottage will be fully embraced by the community to support those in need.”

Supporting the most vulnerable

Jenny brings dedication to homelessness services and community development to her new role, as well as a passion for community engagement.

“I’m looking forward to offering my skills and experience to support and develop our responses for those who are doing it tough and are looking for some relief and support.”

Jenny said she saw her role as Homelessness Projects Manager, generously funded by the Goninan Foundation, as supporting those in need in a safe and inclusive environment. 

“We will assist people with housing, physical health and counselling, as well as providing basic needs like a safe place to shower and do some washing,” said Jenny. “Sometimes it can be as simple as a smile or a cup of tea so that people feel a sense of belonging and connection.”

“Fletcher Street Cottage is incredibly lucky to have Jenny on board as she is imperative to the success of implementing accessible programs and services to those in need within the Byron community,” said Charlotte Goninan of the Goninan Foundation.

“We feel fortunate to be part of the broader team that gets to watch the plans of creating this safe space come to life. Every facet of this project is the reliable, stable foundation that those who are struggling need. We cannot wait to see the positive impact Louise, Jenny and the whole Fletcher Street Cottage team will have on those who need it most.”

Need for funding to reopen

Fletcher Street Cottage, owned by Council and previously run as a drop-in centre, has been closed for five years due to lack of funding and is now in a state of disrepair.

The Byron Community Centre have joined forces with Creative Capital (the team behind Habitat) and Byron Shire Council to redesign and renovate the space and they need your help.

“Faced with the current housing crisis, specialist homelessness services are needed now more than ever,” said Louise O’Connell, general manager of the Byron Community Centre.“We are reaching out for community support to reopen Fletcher Street Cottage as a one-stop-shop to assist people at risk of becoming homeless, as well as those already sleeping rough.”

A campaign will be launched soon to seek support, both funding and in-kind donations, to bring Fletcher Street Cottage back to life.

Get Involved

Fletcher Street Cottage, located in the heart of Byron Bay, will be reopened as a homelessness service hub to assist our community’s most vulnerable thanks to a collaboration between the Byron Community Centre, Byron Shire Council and Creative Capital.

Would you like to donate, lend a hand or keep updated? Find out how to get involved atwww.fletcherstreetcottage.com.au.