Give feedback
- Locations
-
-
Popular locations
Popular locations
-
-
Not-for-profit community health organisation cohealth will acknowledge Homelessness Week with a celebration of Aussie Rules and community connection when it hosts the third annual Homeless Cup at JJ Holland Park in Melbourne’s inner-northwest on Wednesday 6 August 2025.
Led by the cohealth Kangas — and featuring footy players who have experienced, or are experiencing, homelessness — the Homeless Cup will include two exciting games of Aussie Rules, a free barbecue lunch, a DJ spinning cool tunes, and the opportunity for players and community members to chat with cohealth workers about health and social support.
In addition to the cohealth Kangas, spectators will cheer on the Geelong Powercats, the Wynbay Tigers, and the Melton Lions — all from the social league of Reclink Australia.
Many players from these teams face barriers to health and social support, including homelessness, disability, alcohol and drug dependence, and mental illness. Footy has become their gateway to building trusting relationships with support services to access the services that they need, develop a sense of community and belonging, and participate in a positive, planned activity.
“This year is extra special,” says cohealth Housing Peer Support Worker, James Rose. “cohealth has proudly been part of the Reclink Australia league for 25 years. That’s a quarter of a century of connection, transformation, and teamwork.”
“Over the years, thousands of lives have been changed through the Reclink program,” James says. “For many of our clients, this has been more than just a game – it’s been a chance to rebuild confidence, form friendships, and feel part of something meaningful.”
“In fact,” adds cohealth’s Homeless and Community Support Worker Andy Bottriell, “nearly 70 percent of Reclink participants have experienced homelessness at some point in their lives. The league offers a vital outlet for expression, support, and belonging — especially during Homelessness Week, when we raise awareness and stand in solidarity with those doing it tough.”
The Homeless Cup is open to the public and is a free event.
Homeless Cup details
When: Wednesday 6 August 2025
Where: JJ Holland Park, corner of Kensington Road and Childers Street, Kensington
Time:
— ends —
more information: Adam Bennett adam.bennett@cohealth.org.au or 0424 147 230
About cohealth: cohealth is a not-for-profit community health organisation that provides low-cost and free local health and support services including medical, dental, allied health, mental health, aged care and counselling, and many specialist health services in Melbourne’s CBD, inner-north and inner-west, and the east coast of Tasmania (Bicheno and Triabunna).
Collingwood