Fletcher Street Cottage Celebrates Three Years of Community Support

‍‍Fletcher Street Cottage, Byron Shire’s dedicated support hub for people experiencing homelessness, domestic violence and hardship, celebrated its third anniversary on April 12.‍

‍Since opening its doors in 2022, Fletcher Street Cottage has provided thousands of meals, showers, laundry services, referrals and compassionate support to some of the region’s most vulnerable community members. The service, operated by the Byron Community Centre, has become a trusted space where people are met with dignity, safety and respect.‍

‍“This milestone is a testament to the incredible support from our local community, donors, volunteers and partners,” said Damian Farrell, Manager. “Thanks to their generosity, Fletcher Street Cottage has been able to meet growing need and offer critical frontline services.”

‍Originally established through a successful community campaign and the donation of the building by Byron Shire Council, Fletcher Street Cottage continues to rely on donations and project-based grants to fund its work. Over the past three years, the service has responded to increasing demand, with around 35,000 visits since opening its doors.

‍“The stories we hear every day are powerful reminders of why this service matters,” said Maddi Powell, Assistant Manager and Community Support Worker. “We’re not only offering breakfast or a shower, but hope, connection and the first step toward stability.”

‍Just this past week, Maddi was able to link a woman with vital mental health support, creating a path to stability for her. She also helped the client visit her child, who lives out of the area. The client shared, “I really appreciate all the help, this is the first time in my life I’ve felt really supported and understood.”

‍To mark the anniversary, the team shared a look back at the past three years, a reminder of the passion and persistence that brought Fletcher Street Cottage to life. With 110 active volunteers supporting breakfast, showers and laundry, the service simply couldn’t exist without community support.

‍As the service enters its fourth year, Fletcher Street Cottage is focused on expanding community fundraising efforts, growing philanthropic partnerships and developing long-term donor programs, including a new Gifts in Wills campaign.

‍“This is a celebration of resilience, not just of our team and service, but of the people we support,” said Louise O’Connell, General Manager of Byron Community Centre. “We’re proud of what we’ve achieved together, and we know there’s still much more to do.”

To support Fletcher Street Cottage or learn more, visit: www.fletcherstreetcottage.com.au. 

‍About Fletcher Street Cottage

Fletcher Street Cottage is a community hub in the heart of Byron Bay, offering essential support for individuals facing homelessness and hardship. Our services include nutritious meals, access to showers and laundry, advocacy, health services and more, all aimed at helping our clients move toward stability and self-sufficiency. With the support of our dedicated team, volunteers and generous community partners, we’re working every day to make a positive impact.