Affordable housing is an issue affecting many low income Australians, with many people relying on a government pension as their only source of income. There are currently over 10,000 people on assisted accommodation waiting lists across Queensland, and the demand is increasing.

To meet this significant community need, Y-Care (South East Queensland) Inc. has purchased over 2700 square metres of land in Nerang and has developed with the State Department of Housing a 55 bed Affordable Housing facility which provides quality, affordable accommodation to people in necessitous circumstances. 

Tenants for these affordable housing villages will be selected from Department of Housing waiting lists, and will be those of highest-need for these services.

One of the distinct advantages Y-Care (South-East Queensland) Inc. can provide to this model is the range of other YMCA services and programs that can be added in order to further reduce the distress and suffering seen as a result of poverty and misfortune.

Programs that will be made available include:

• Counseling
• Health and recreation services
• Education services
• Low-cost, pre-packaged meals

The YMCA services will help instill a true community feel and environment within the villages.