Merri Outreach Support Service Ltd

Merri Outreach Support Service Ltd (MOSS) is an Australian not-for-profit organisation dedicated to providing comprehensive housing and support services to vulnerable individuals experiencing homelessness or housing vulnerability, primarily within the Melbourne metropolitan area. Established in 1988, MOSS originated from a community-driven initiative in Darebin to address homelessness locally and has since expanded its outreach to serve a broader population at risk or experiencing homelessness.

History and Mission

The organisation was founded when community members in Darebin recognized the urgent need to combat homelessness. Following a successful funding submission, MOSS opened its first office on High Street, Northcote. Since then, it has grown to operate multiple offices, delivering a wide range of housing support programs designed to empower and assist individuals facing housing instability. MOSS focuses on a holistic, person-centred approach, aiming for genuine and sustainable reconciliation and support, particularly involving Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples alongside the wider community.

Services and Programs

MOSS specializes in outreach and support services tailored to the complex needs of people who are homeless or sleeping rough. One of its key initiatives includes the Merri Assertive Community Outreach Program (MACO), launched in 2024 in partnership with local government and community agencies. MACO specifically addresses the diverse needs of rough sleepers and those experiencing homelessness in the Merri-bek area, focusing on connecting individuals to housing and support services efficiently.

The organisation’s approach involves collaboration with regional homelessness and housing services to ensure streamlined assistance and minimize duplication of efforts. MOSS also accepts referrals for individuals needing support with health and social issues, working through program managers who assess needs and coordinate appropriate services.

Community Impact

MOSS strives to end homelessness by providing life-changing support and programs that make vulnerable Victorians feel safe and valued. The outreach services contribute significantly to achieving the Functional Zero framework goals in their operational regions, marking progress towards eliminating rough sleeping through coordinated community responses.

Beneficiaries

The services offered by MOSS cater to a diverse demographic including youth aged 15 to under 25, adults aged 25 to under 65, and older adults aged 65 and over. The organisation remains committed to inclusivity and equity in its service delivery.

Governance and Status

Merri Outreach Support Service Ltd operates as a registered charity under the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC), with ABN 42318912323RR0001. It is governed by a board and managed by experienced professionals committed to social justice and homelessness prevention.

This summary captures the core aspects of Merri Outreach Support Service Ltd’s identity, history, services, and community role based on available sources.

[1] https://merri.org.au [2] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/5b1cf45e-39af-e811-a95e-000d3ad24c60/profile [3] http://merri.org.au/about-moss/ [4] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/5b1cf45e-39af-e811-a95e-000d3ad24c60/documents/8973e002-2a35-eb11-bf70-000d3ad1f9f4 [5] https://www.merri-bek.vic.gov.au/my-council/news-and-publications/news/people-experiencing-homelessness-set-to-receive-support-through-new-service-in-merri-bek/