Homebuyer's first step makes big impact for crisis support charity
A homebuyer's first step onto the property ladder in Lara is set to help a Geelong charity provide crisis accommodation for the next four years.
Samaritan House Geelong received the financial boost after the $675,000 sale of the four-bedroom house in Reflections Crescent, Lara.
Bisinella Developments donated the 518sq m Lara Lakes Estate lot to Samaritan House Geelong, facilitating the Hamlan Homes construction, with styling by Moda Interior Styling. Landscaping was arranged and funded by Bisinella as a further donation to the project.
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Coulter Legal, a longstanding supporter of Samaritan House Geelong, provided the conveyancing for both the land donation and the property sale.
The property was purchased in May by first-home buyers from Altona Meadows for $675,000 and the property was expected to be settled in late June.
The four-bedroom residence has two bathrooms and an open-plan living, dining the kitchen area that opens to the back yard.
The proceeds from the sale will support the Samaritan House Geelong's work providing crisis accommodation and essential services to men experiencing homelessness in the region.
Samaritan House Geelong Director Wally Pelaccia said Bisinella's contribution was 'deeply impactful'.
'The success of this project is a reflection of the power of community partnerships,' he said.
'Bisinella's donation will underpin our operations for the next four years, giving us stability and allowing us to plan ahead.'
Bisinella Developments director Richard Bisinella said it's an important cause.
'Homelessness is a critical issue across Australia that Bisinella Developments and our partners are committed to solving at a local level,' he said.
'Supporting organisations like Samaritan House is one way we can help make a real difference to people's lives.
'We are grateful to have been a part of this fantastic initiative and look forward to welcoming the new homeowners into our Lara Lakes Estate.'
Mr Pelaccia said Samaritan House Geelong, which was established in 2012, offers much more than shelter.
'It's a space to reconnect, to build friendships and to believe in a better tomorrow,' he said.
'Guests often form bonds that lead to shared work opportunities and long-term housing, helping to break the cycle of homelessness.
'Support of Samaritan House Geelong enables those men who have fallen on hard times a chance to breathe and re-evaluate their lives.'
Inspired by the success of this initiative, Samaritan House Geelong has placed the idea of a second home build on its agenda, although no immediate plans are in place.
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