Efforts rewarded by centre opening

Tireless efforts to support disadvantaged young people over five years were rewarded last week as Broome St John of God Health Care’s Horizon House was officially opened by WA governor, Dr Ken Michael.

Broome’s is now Australia’s eighth Horizon House. These centres provide long-term accommodation, care and intensive support to young people as part of St John of God Health Care’s commitment to social outreach and advocacy.

Broome’s centre will provide stable support accommodation with 24- hour rostered carer supervision. It is expected six young men will move into the residence over coming weeks.

The organisation’s youth services manager, Mike Board, said the Sisters of St John of God had identified and sought to address a huge need in the town.

“Not only for locals but also for people who need to come in to Broome and accommodation is beyond their reach,” he said.

The five-year project was a joint initiative of the Sisters of St John of God and the Department of Housing, with support from organisations including Lotterywest.

Before the official opening, Bishop Christopher Saunders blessed the house.

Guests included the Sisters of St John of God, Bishop Saunders, St John of God Health Care chairman of trustees Clive Macknay and Broome shire president Graeme Campbell.