Social enterprise for homeless seeks $50,000

An emerging social enterprise, The Underground Collaborative, is seeking about $50,000 to provide employment pathways for Perth’s homeless and disadvantaged amid plans to roll out a series of coffee carts across local parks.

Founded by former accountant Katie Liew, the organisation aims to employ women and youth who have been victims of domestic violence and explore housing solutions through collaborations with other not for profits.

The Underground Collaborative was recently granted approval by the Town of Victoria Park to operate a coffee cart at John Macmillan Park as the first phase of its employment plan.

It is now seeking $20,000 in development and equipment costs and $26,000 to cover the first two months of staff costs.

Ms Liew said the initiative aimed to provide disadvantaged people with an income, improved self-esteem and a sense of community to help break the cycle of homelessness.

“Any financial contributions would make a world of difference in getting us up and running; we are also continually seeking other opportunities and avenues so as to minimise any costs where possible,” she said.

Ms Liew’s ambition is to eventually launch a container cafe, also located at a local park, to increase the Underground Collaborative’s capacity to employ staff.