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(L-R) Order of the Saint of John of Jerusalem Chevalier Edward Gauden, Vinnies chief executive officer Heather Kent and Bethlehem House executive manager Stephen Shreeve.
New and exciting collaborations are supporting the St Vincent De Paul Society’s (Vinnies) ‘Special Works’, including an innovative program to assist Bethlehem House residents to secure employment.
Supported and funded by the Tasmanian Priory of the Order of Saint John of Jerusalem, Knights Hospitaller the Employability Program will help improve resident’s employability skills such as computer literacy, resume writing, interview skills and finding appropriate on-site work experience.
Each resident will have the opportunity to be assessed individually to determine the best approach to be taken, including selection of appropriate service providers, recognising that each person needs different levels of support.
Bethlehem House Executive Manager Stephen Shreeve said the Employability Program would be a significant inclusion in Bethlehem House’s operations and could potentially involve up to 100 participants in its first year.
“The Employability Program is designed to develop our residents and prepare them to make positive steps towards employment,” he said.
“This program will focus on the specific needs of our residents and provide them with the tools and knowledge and confidence to enter or re-enter the workspace.
“This program would not be possible without the support and collaboration of the Knights and Dames of the Order of Saint John of Jerusalem.”
The Prior of the Order of Saint John of Jerusalem in Tasmania, Chevalier Edward Gauden OAM CJSJ said the Tasmanian Priory was committed to improving the lives of all community members.
“OSJ is incredibly proud to support the ‘Special Works’ that Vinnies does and help make a positive impact on our community,” he said.
“When our members become Knights and Dames of the Order, we make a commitment to Faith and Service to Humanity - Pro Fide, Pro Utilitate Hominum. A commitment to those who struggle and those in need and this is a wonderful opportunity to follow through on that pledge. “
The Order is a Christian, Chivalric Ecumenical and International community. Founded by Benedictine monk, Br Gerard, in the 11th Century for pilgrims to Jerusalem. The history of the Order is over 900 years of continuous service to the sick and poor.
“We look forward to working closely with Vinnies to help people struggling in our community, and the Employability Program at Bethlehem House is just the start.
“Employment opens up many opportunities for men, including breaking the cycle of homelessness.”
Vinnies Chief Executive Officer Heather Kent said the new Bethlehem House at the site of the former Waratah Hotel would have the capacity to accommodate up to 75 men.
“The Employability Program will help residents gain back their independence and reintegrate into community, family and friendship networks.
“By enhancing our activity towards employment, we expedite a man’s journey to meaningfulness in life which creates a vacancy for another man who otherwise would be experiencing homelessness in very trying circumstances.”
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