BHRG president Kate Holmes said the shelter currently operated six nights a week from 6pm to 7am, offering anyone experiencing homelessness a warm meal and a safe place to sleep.
“Our hope is to get enough volunteers to open the shelter doors seven nights a week because we now have enough venues to open for seven nights,” she said.
Ms Holmes said the service launched last year with strong community support, allowing it to run six nights a week across several church venues, including the Presbyterian, Baptist and Anglican churches.
This year, the Benalla Salvation Army has joined the partnership, meaning the shelter could expand to seven nights if organisers get enough volunteers.
“It’s also a bonus because the Salvation Army has dedicated homelessness outreach and support workers, so people coming through the night shelter will be put in close contact with professional workers if they want to be,” Ms Holmes said.
She said the shelter focused on community care, trust-building and helping people reconnect with society in a non-judgmental environment.
Volunteers are needed for both evening shifts (5.45pm to 10pm) and overnight shifts (9.45pm to 7am).
Volunteer orientation sessions:
Thursday, May 14: From 6pm to 8pm at the Benalla Baptist Church, 57-59 Bridge St West, Benalla.
Saturday, May 16: 10am at the Benalla Salvation Army, Bridge St.
More sessions will be confirmed later this week.
For volunteer inquiries, text 0494 134 957 or email welcomeplacenightshelter@gmail.com.
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