Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I go, who do I call if I am homeless right now?
- The best place to start is 24/7 service; Link2Home (1800 152 152). They will provide:
- Information about local services
- An assessment to determine what kind of help is needed
- Referral to appropriate specialist homelessness services (SHS), support services, temporary accommodation and/or other services
- WHHHS provides access to funded homelessness, health, legal, housing, financial, advocacy and support services in the Illawarra and Shoalhaven, to give a true service of integration and holistic outcomes for people at risk.
Does WHHHS provide accommodation?
We do. We provide temporary accommodation via referral from Housing Pathway providers and Links2Home. Clients who are experiencing homelessness and are in need of immediate accommodation should call Links2Home on 1800 152 152 for assessment and referral.
We also have transitional housing across the Illawarra. To request information or to be assessed for transitional housing please make contact with our staff at one of our service points to discuss your needs.
I need food for myself/my family. Where do I go?
There are many options for low cost and even free food services. If you go here you can see a list of all of the low cost and free food options in our area.
Clients can also have access to emergency food support by visiting one of our service points in the community.
The Hub Located at 40 Princes Hwy Fairy Meadow Open Wednesday to Friday 9:30am - 2pm or
The WHHHS Mobile Outreach Van on Tuesday and Thursday from 4pm - 6pm (Railway Station Square near the Lighthouse Church)
What items can I donate & where can I drop them off?
Our administration office has limited storage space. However, we continuously welcome donations of non-perishable food, new or unopened personal care items, and any goods that are new and in their original packaging. We favor a coordinated approach to receiving these goods to guarantee their timely use and prevent overburdening our storage systems.
If unsuitable or excess items are donated, this becomes an expensive problem as we need to arrange for the disposal of those items. As a charitable organisation this diverts much needed funds away from our programs and goods into landfill.
Donations can be dropped off at our Head Office at 34-40 Lady Penrhyn Drive, Unanderra on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9am-4pm.
If you have goods you would like to donate, please contact us on (02) 4228 0955 or email us at info@whhhs.org.au
What non-perishable food items can I donate?
All non-perishable food items!
Our most needed items are:
- Coffee – Jars and sachets
- Microwavable Pasta & Rice
- Canned Baked Beans & Spaghetti
- Long life milk (Popper size and 1L)
- Muesli & Protein bars
- Noodle Cups & 2-minute noodles
- Up and Go’s
- Multipack snacks, cheese & crackers, biscuits or chips
- Fruit Cups & canned fruit
- Creamed rice
- Canned Protein, Tuna, sausages, Meat (Ham & Chicken)
- Pasta Sauces
*Ring pull is preferred for tinned items*
Is there a service that can help me keep my pet safe?
Yes. We understand that pets are family, and concerns about their safety can sometimes prevent people from seeking help.
Wollongong Homeless Hub & Housing Services has limited accommodation options that may be able to support people with pets. If we can't assist directly, we can connect you with local services such as the RSPCA, participating veterinary clinics, and other organisations that provide pet care and support.
Please contact us to discuss your situation so we can explore the best available options.
Where can I see a doctor urgently, but it’s not an emergency?
If your medical concern is urgent but not life-threatening, there are several services available to help.
You may be able to access:
- Urgent Care Clinics
- Streetside Medics
- Your local GP (same-day appointments may be available)
- Healthdirect (1800 022 222) for free health advice 24 hours a day
If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 000 immediately or attend your nearest Emergency Department.
What are the help line numbers that can assist?
There are many free and confidential support services available:
- Lifeline – 13 11 14 (24/7 crisis support)
- 13YARN – 13 92 76 (24/7 crisis support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples)
- Kids Helpline – 1800 55 1800 (for children and young people aged 5–25)
- Suicide Call Back Service – 1300 659 467
- Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636
If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 000.
I have been issued an eviction, where can I go for advice & help?
If you've received an eviction or termination notice, it's important to seek advice as early as possible.
You may be able to access support through:
- Tenants' Advice and Advocacy Services
- Illawarra Legal Centre
Our team can also discuss your housing options and help connect you with the right support services.
Who can help with a WDO?
A Work and Development Order (WDO) can help eligible people reduce fines by participating in approved activities such as counselling, treatment, education or voluntary work.
For more information about eligibility and participating organisations, visit the Work and Development Order website or speak with our team about options.
Where can I access laundry services?
If you need access to free laundry facilities, there are community services that may be able to help.
Services include:
- Orange Sky Australia mobile laundry service
- Local community centres and neighbourhood services
- Other emergency relief providers
Our team can assist with providing locations and operating times.
What support is available for me if I am supporting someone who is homeless?
Supporting a family member or friend experiencing homelessness can be challenging, and support is available for you too.
Depending on your situation, you may be able to access:
- Carer Gateway
- Counselling and wellbeing services
- Local community support services
If you're unsure where to start, please contact our team and we'll help connect you with the most appropriate support.


