MOSS

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    • Older Persons High Rise Support Program (OPHRSP)
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Beyond Visibility

A Year of Impact
In the Hidden Homelessness Crisis

The Challenge: Hidden Homelessness in Our Community

Homelessness is not always visible. It’s the family living in a car, the student couch-surfing to stay in school, or the older person in insecure housing. In Victoria, this crisis is growing, but so is our resolve.
•1 in 3 specialist homelessness service clients have experienced family and domestic violence.
•122,000 people in Australia are without a home on any given night.
•Less than 2% of rental properties are affordable for lower-income households.
At MOSS, we believe that a home is more than a roof over your head; it’s the foundation for a life of dignity, opportunity, and belonging. Our work is dedicated to making that a reality for everyone in our community.
Make It Visible

Our Impact in 2025: By the Numbers

A Year of Unwavering Support

Homelessness is often out of sight. It’s the family sleeping in a car, a young person couch-surfing to stay in school, or an older neighbour in insecure housing. Across Victoria, the pressure is rising, and it’s showing up in empty fridges, unaffordable rents and long waitlists.

13,300 children (12–17) sought help without a parent or guardian.

1 in 3 people using specialist homelessness services experience family and domestic violence.

Cost of living is biting: 1 in 20 people ran out of money for food last year; 1 in 10 live in poverty.

46,157 contacts with community members from our team, outreach, check-ins, advocacy and referrals.

16,155 meals provided, practical relief so longer-term plans can stick.

2,381 nights in crisis beds, immediate safety when there was nowhere else to go.

707 children & young people supported, keeping kids connected to school, sport and stability.

142 First Nations people supported, culturally safe, person-led assistance.

Make It Visible

How We Create Change: Our Programs

Our approach is holistic and person-centered. We meet people where they are and provide tailored support to help them achieve their goals. Our work is organised into three key areas:
  • Crisis & Transitional Support: From our Youth Refuge to our Crisis Response Program, we provide immediate safety and support for those in crisis. We offer shelter, food, and a compassionate team to help people navigate their immediate challenges.
  • Youth & Family Services: The Bright Futures Program and our Youth & Family teams work to break the cycle of homelessness for the next generation. We provide case management, therapeutic support, and resources to help children and families thrive.
  • Housing & Community Outreach: Our Assertive Outreach teams connect with people experiencing homelessness in our community, building trust and providing a pathway to housing. As we move towards becoming a Registered Social Housing Provider, we are expanding our capacity to provide long-term, stable housing solutions.
Make It Visible

Stronger Communities. Safer Homes. Real Outcomes.

We measure success in safe nights, steady tenancies, and moments of dignity.

Housing is the foundation, but it’s the wrap-around support that helps people stay housed. In 2025, MOSS focused on early intervention, outreach in the places people already are, and strong local partnerships. We invested where it matters most: teams on the ground, culturally safe practice, and trauma-aware support that meets people where they’re at.

Make It Visible

Dive Deeper: Our 2025 Annual Report

Our 2025 Annual Report provides a comprehensive look at our work, our impact, and our vision for the future. Explore the full report to learn more about our programs, read stories from our community, and see our financial statements.

A Story of Hope: The Jones Family

When Mary and her three children—Elijah, Esther, and Mara—were referred to MOSS, they were living in transitional housing after fleeing family violence. The children, two of whom are autistic, were struggling to access the support they needed, and the family’s future was uncertain.
Through our Bright Futures Program, we provided wrap-around support tailored to each family member’s needs. We helped Mara re-engage with school, connected Benjamin with a pediatrician, and provided brokerage support for school supplies. The family attended our holiday camps, building new, positive memories together.
After 20 months of dedicated support, the Jones family is now in stable housing, and the children are connected with the services they need to thrive.
Mary’s words say it all: “The team was very patient, respectful, and non-judging. They helped us navigate a complex system and gave us the stability we needed to rebuild our lives.”
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Make a donation

Your donation will help us invest in and deliver support programs to people at risk or suffering homelessness. Show your support and help us put an end to homelessness.

Where does your money go?

$25 could provide a hot meal, warm drink, or essential hygiene items to someone experiencing homelessness today

$50 could provide immediate relief with food, transport, and essential items for someone in crisis

$100 could Fund a week of hot meals, school supplies, and support services for a family in need

$125 Could support services including housing assistance, education, and long-term stability programs

Make It Visible
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  • ANNUAL REPORTS 2024

This certification meets the requirements of AS/NZS ISO 9001:2015

This certification meets the requirements of the Department of Human Services Standards

© Merri Outreach Support Service Ltd 2021. ABN 42 318 912 323. All rights reserved.
All donations of $2 or more to Merri Outreach Support Service Ltd are tax-deductible.

 

Merri Outreach Support Service (MOSS) acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands and waters of Victoria.

 

MOSS is a place where people of diverse genders and sexual orientations are welcomed and supported.

 

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