From a Vision to Changing Lives
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What began as a vision to provide safe, secure housing for people experiencing homelessness has become a remarkable example of Rotary clubs working together with other service organisations to create lasting community impact.
The journey began with My Home, founded by Rotarian and architect Michelle Blakeley, who believed that people experiencing homelessness deserved more than temporary shelter. They deserved a safe, permanent place to call home. Rotary WA accepted the challenge of helping turn those houses into fully furnished welcoming homes.
In 2023, the first 18 homes opened in North Fremantle, providing secure accommodation for women over 55 who had experienced homelessness. Rotary
and its partners contributed $125,000 towards furnishing and equipping these homes. Building on that success, 12 more homes were completed in Albany in 2026, with Rotary and its partners contributing another $72,000.
In Albany, volunteers from Rotary, Inner Wheel, CWA, Soroptimists, Lions, Albany Men's Shed and other community groups worked side by side,
assembling furniture, preparing bedrooms, equipping kitchens and stocking pantries. The following day, the first residents began moving in.
Among them were parents with young children who had been couch surfing, young people from crisis accommodation, and someone who had experienced homelessness for approximately 15 years. For these people, the project meant far more than receiving furniture. It meant
security, dignity and the opportunity for a new beginning.
A Proven Commitment
Through fundraising, sponsorship, donations and community partnerships, Rotary Supporting My Home has raised an extraordinary $282,000.
Of this, $197,000 has been invested directly in furnishing and equipping the first 30 homes, with approximately $85,000 currently held to support the
program's continuing work.
These achievements demonstrate that Rotary's involvement is not a one-off donation. It is an ongoing commitment, backed by financial contributions,
practical action and strong community partnerships.
The Journey Continues
With North Fremantle and Albany completed, attention is now turning to the next developments, including 24 planned homes in Carlisle, supporting mothers with babies and older women, and a further proposed 18 homes in Mandurah.
The opportunity for Rotary clubs to be involved is growing. Every club, regardless of size, can make a meaningful contribution through fundraising, sponsorship, donations, business connections or practical volunteering. What makes this project special is that no single club needs to carry the
responsibility. By combining our resources, relationships and enthusiasm, we achieve something far greater than any one club could accomplish
alone.
Thirty homes are already a reality. Thirty households have been given an opportunity for greater stability and independence. And this is only the beginning.
Rotary Supporting My Home demonstrates what Service Above Self truly means — people working together, strengthening communities and creating lasting impact.
Rotary Supporting My Home Amount
Total funds raised $282,000
North Fremantle – 18 homes $125,000
Albany – 12 homes $72,000
Funds available for future projects $85,000
Through the generosity of Rotary clubs, fellow service organisations, businesses and community supporters, Rotary Supporting My Home has raised an
impressive $282,000.
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