19-20 ANNUAL REPORT FINAL

Tamara Smith MP State Member for Ballina

Janelle Saffin MP State Member for Lismore

Congratulations to Momentum Collective on yet another successful year! I appreciate and value the exceptional services that this organisation brings to the residents of the Ballina Electorate. This year we have seen an increase in mental illnesses, homelessness and unemployment as a result of the COVID 19 Pandemic. Organisations such as Momentum have been at the forefront of dealing with those affected. I commend Momentum on their successful delivery of mental health, domestic violence, disability, employment and accommodation services in Northern New South Wales. A big thank you to all of the staff and volunteers at Momentum Collective for their outstanding service to our community and wish you all the best for a wonderful year ahead.

My work as a political representative is guided daily by the desire to make a positive difference in people’s lives, particularly the disadvantaged in our local communities. Momentum Collective’s mission statement of helping their clients have a safe and suitable roof over their heads, secure a job, and to live a better life aligns with my values. I thank Momentum for participating in my forum in Lismore last August to find common ground on what can be done to tackle housing supply, affordable housing and homelessness. That forum informed Housing Ends Homelessness Report and Advocacy Paper, my submission to the Housing Strategy for NSW Discussion Paper. I grew up in the Housing Commission (as it was called then) and felt so pleased and privileged to have a house, a yard, a neighbourhood and a broad mix of people. All children must have this opportunity and feel like this. It is up to us adults to make sure it happens both at a policy level and at a practical level on the ground.

Annual Report 2019-20 | 9

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