TWENTY-one local businesses owners have agreed to be part of Shoalhaven’s first Shark Tank project.
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On Tuesday, August 4, the business owners will come together so homelessness service providers can pitch ideas for them to support.
The idea was born out of a need for new solutions to the region’s homelessness problem, as well as a need to give those who want to help financially easier access to those doing the helping on the ground.
The format will follow the Ten Network’s Shark Tank program.
On Tuesday between 2pm and 5pm, the Shoalhaven Homelessness Shark Tank will be held at the Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre, where local homelessness service providers will present their ideas to local business “sharks”.
Shark Tank co-ordinator Penni Wildi was pleased with the amount of support from Shoalhaven businesses.
“We have different financial categories for businesses to nominate to help through. That way we can align each group of businesses with the ideas that will fit their budget,” she said.
One of the first businesses to get on board was Shoal Bus and the company’s operations manager Alan Hawkes was excited about the immediate and future potential for the idea.
“I have a deep concern about people being homeless in the Shoalhaven, it’s such a big thing,” he said.
“This is an easy way for local businesses to help local people.
“I know every bit can make a difference.
“I’m hoping through this I can help give someone more enjoyment in life and better memories.”
Mr Hawkes said he thought the idea was a great way to get local businesses helping locals.
“Having a home, having that consistency can mean so much. It’s very important particularly when there are children involved,” he said.
Mr Hawkes and Ms Wildi recently met Maryanne Gardner, who has been living at The Bounty motel for seven months.
Ms Gardner has three young children and has been homeless and living wherever she can on and off for many years.
“I was living in Canberra, then Dubbo, looking for a permanent home,” she said.
“Then my dad died and I ended up looking for somewhere to live in Nowra. Week after week I was being moved from motel to motel, it was hard.”
She said the Shark Tank idea was likely to help get people off the streets.
It’s not too late to become a shark. Contact Penni Wildi by phoning 4421 5145 or email penni@scch.org.au.