Arthur Bourne House, Cardina Shire, VIC

A story of generosity, compassion, professionalism, hard work and extending a helping hand to support those most in need

Between 2011 and 2016, the number of people estimated to be homeless rose by 52.8 per cent in Cardinia Shire. Four years on, with increased rental stress and an alarming jump in family violence, this figure is on the rise. Of all the people seeking support for social housing in Cardinia, 24.2 per cent is because of family violence, and 92 per cent are women.

In late 2019, The Victorian Homeless Fund secured a long-term lease on a block of land owned by Cardinia Shire Council.

Local builder, SJD Homes answered the call and commenced construction of a four-bedroom family home.

SJD Director, Simon Dunstan, is passionate about breaking the cycle of poverty for families in crisis. “This is the second home we have been involved with building for the VHF and we are extremely proud of the contribution our staff, trades and supplier.  We all believe that their contribution will make a huge difference to a deserving family.

“I was lucky enough to have been bought up in a loving stable family environment, not having that as part of your foundation in life, it makes you realize how hard it would be to grow. Hopefully, we have provided an environment that the whole family can flourish.”  Simon said.

Not only did SJD Homes undertake the build, they also raised considerable funds which were donated to the project.  Funding for this house was also provided by The Bourne Foundation, established by Arthur Bourne, after whom the house was named.

Once the finishing touches are added, the home will be managed by The Women’s Property Initiatives, an organisation that provides permanent and affordable homes for women at risk of homelessness along with access to support networks and ongoing advocacy. The organisation has selected a very deserving family to live in this home and they patiently and excitedly await receipt of the keys. The group’s CEO Jeanette Large says “This sort of generosity can completely change the life of a family, allowing them to live with dignity and become involved in their community.”

This is a story of generosity, compassion, professionalism, hard work and extending a helping hand to support those most in need.  The builders, suppliers and trades people who have donated to this project have been amazingly generous and because of them a family will have a home and hope and a future.

 

• 4 bedroom family home built by SJD Homes
• Generously funded by The Bourne Foundation
• Land orivded by Cardinia Shire Council