Springwood Tri Services RSL Sub Branch On A Mission To Support Homeless Veterans

In June 2023, Jamie received a call from a local councillor who wanted to let him know that there were some veterans who had been camping outside the Vietnam Veterans’ bunker nearby in Kingston. In the hopes to connect with the veterans, Jamie went to visit the site, but no one was there. 

He knew that if there were members of the veteran community experiencing homelessness in Kingston, there might be more in the neighbouring areas. 

With the support of the Springwood Tri Services RSL Sub Branch, Jamie developed the Sub Branch’s Homelessness Veterans’ Program to offer support and assistance to local veterans in the area that were experiencing homelessness. 

James McLellan

“To find out that there were fellow veterans out there doing it tough was heartbreaking, I knew we needed to do something about it,” Jamie says. 

“So we connected with a few local organisations and charities that were already assisting people experiencing homelessness to help us identify any who might also be a veteran so we could connect and offer support. 

“Veterans all share a unique history, and it is important for all of us to support one another so that no one is left behind.” 

Funded by donations from raffles at community events, the Program aims to provide veterans with the resources to access short term accommodation, food, or even a friendly conversation. 

Local Councillors, State and Federal Members have also connected the Program with 15 organisations that help the Sub Branch reach those veterans experiencing homelessness and connect them with the support they need. 

“Fishers of Men and Rosies Friends on the Street have been particularly supportive of us, and consistently provide veterans they meet with our contact details,” Jamie says. 

“Some of our Sub Branch members have also been out volunteering with these organisations at street meets, ensuring those who attend are aware of the services we and RSL Queensland can provide. 

“Recently, we donated 20 sleeping bags to both organisations to support their efforts in assisting those who are facing homelessness.” 

Now, as the Springwood Tri Services RSL Sub Branch President, Jamie and other members often attend local community events to speak about how the program supports veterans and those experiencing homelessness.  

“Recently we conducted a raffle at a local festival and the event organisers also donated a portion of their entry fee to our program – this saw us raise $1,500 in one day.”  

Jamie hopes to inspire other RSL Sub Branches to get involved with their local community, to find and provide support to those veterans who might be doing it tough. 

“I hope to encourage other RSL Sub Branches to reach out to their local councillors and uncover what organisations are out there in their area serving those in need, to see what extra support would be beneficial.” 

“As an organisation, it is our duty to go out and spread the word of the services RSL Queensland and our Sub Branches can provide veterans. After all, we are family and must continue to support each other.”