UnitingCare Ballarat manages and funds BreezeWay on behalf of the Ballarat community. The program receives no government funding. It needs to raise $110,000- to operate every year.

BreezeWay provides a substantial and nutritional midday meal every day of the year for people who are marginalised, homeless, living in insecure accommodation and / or have no cooking facilities. It operates from 10.30am to 1.30pm each day and servies approximately 60 meals.  Take-away meals are also provided which include sandwiches and fruit outside the lunchtime meal. The cafe style environment is also a place of shelter during the winter months.

A loyal group of 50 volunteers work in the Breezeway Program. They represent a diverse range of church, business and community groups. The volunteers have gained a reputation for providing a warm, friendly and peaceful atmosphere.

The Program is in its thirteenth year and recently served its 250,000th meal. It grows and develops each year with increased demand and the introduction of specialist support services.

An office for visiting health professionals is provided adjacent to the program. People utilising BreezeWay may also be reffered to a range of services.  These services could include programs such as homeless support, housing, alcohol and other drugs and emergency relief.

People of all ages visit the program. Around 20% are female. The program has a high number of people with mental health issues.

St John of God Hospital is an ongoing Breezeway partner. They provide volunteers and food for each Sunday meal.

A Social Justice Op-Shop, Bookshop and Cafe called The Light Lounge has been established in Wesley Hall, upstairs from Breezeway. The Light Lounge freely provides homeless people and low income families with clothes and support. 

For more information contact:

Barb Cole on 5337 2721 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it