An art project launched during National Homelessness Week is giving Ipswich residents the chance to reflect on the true meaning of “home.”
Led by Hayley from Hannah’s House and Donna from Helping Support Minds, the initiative began with a community artwork that invited people to write or draw their personal reflections on what home means. The canvas has already been displayed at local schools including Sacred Heart, St Edmund’s College and St Mary’s College, where students also participated in a homelessness awareness sleep-out.
“Art is not just about creating something beautiful—it’s a voice,” Hayley said. “This project encouraged people to think deeply about home, which for many means safety and belonging. Everyone’s answer was unique.”
Quotes gathered on the canvas include “Home is where my heart is,” “Home is where I feel safe, loved and at peace,” and “Home is feeling like you belong.”
Donna highlighted the importance of community support, recalling how St Edmund’s teachers recently volunteered to make thousands of sandwiches for local schools while their students took part in the homelessness sleep-out. “That is what community looks like,” she said.
The project continues this week with a fresh canvas now on display at the gallery inside the Booval Fair Shopping Centre. Residents are invited to contribute their own reflections during opening hours, Monday to Saturday from 9.30am to 2pm.
Pens and materials are provided, and organisers hope locals will take the opportunity to share their thoughts while also raising awareness about homelessness in Ipswich.
“This is a gentle but powerful way to spark conversations about community and the challenges many people face,” Hayley said. “We’d love to see as many people as possible come and add their voices.”
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