Art Space, Housing Support and Everyday Dignity

20th – 24th April 2026

This week at Fletcher Street Cottage we’ve seen the power of creativity, practical support and collaboration in helping people feel safe, supported and connected. From creative moments of calm to housing support and essential services like showers and laundry, it’s been a week of care, dignity and connection at Fletcher Street Cottage. Here’s a snapshot of what happened.

Highlights

• Participants in our Art Space shared how creating art helps them feel calm and reflective. Many expressed gratitude for having a space where they can slow down, connect and express themselves. Art Space continues to offer important moments of mental and emotional respite, supporting wellbeing and personal growth.
• Through our partnership with the Hall Foundation, we supported a woman to maintain her housing and access financial assistance. Collaborations like this allow us to provide timely, practical support that helps prevent homelessness and creates stability.
• Access to showers and laundry remains a vital part of our service. So far this year, we’ve facilitated 457 showers and 273 loads of laundry, helping people feel clean, refreshed and supported. These simple but essential services restore dignity and give people the opportunity to reset and recharge.
• We continue to work closely with Nadia from the Women’s Resource Centre, who visits our Women’s Space to support women experiencing domestic and family violence. This collaboration strengthens our ability to assess needs, provide referrals and deliver trauma-informed, culturally sensitive support.
• A big thank you to our volunteers Kerry and Mary, who dedicated their time to reorganising the Cottage. By restructuring donations and optimising our space, they have created a more open and welcoming environment for everyone who walks through our doors.

About Fletcher Street Cottage

Fletcher Street Cottage is a community hub in the heart of Byron Bay, providing essential support for locals in need. Our services include nutritious meals, access to showers and laundry, advocacy, health and wellbeing programs, and creative initiatives like Women’s Space, all designed to help people move toward stability and self sufficiency. With the support of our volunteers, partners and donors, we continue to make a difference every day.