For the fourth consecutive year, Metricon Stadium will alter from its usual match-day operations and into a one-stop shop for those impacted by homelessness across the Gold Coast when Homeless Connect returns to the city’s home of football.

Homeless Connect, now into its ninth year, allows people who are homeless or those at risk of becoming homeless to get in touch with a variety of community services, including health and wellbeing, legal advice and counselling.

Those attending will also have the opportunity to enjoy the haircuts and manicures on offer.

This event is an initiative of the Gold Coast Homelessness Network and is proudly supported by the Gold Coast Community Fund, Gold Coast SUNS, City of Gold Coast, O’Brien Group Australia, Metricon Stadium, and 91.7 ABC Gold Coast.

GC SUNS Chief Executive Officer – Andrew Travis, said Homeless Connect had become an important annual fixture of the club’s community calendar.

“We are delighted that we are supporting Homeless Connect for a seventh year, but equally as thrilled to be hosting the event at Metricon Stadium for a fourth consecutive year,” Travis said.

“Through our targeted “Horizons” program, the Gold Coast SUNS invests heavily towards tackling the issue of youth homelessness in our city.

“It’s an important issue on the Gold Coast and we embrace our role as community leaders.”

Mayoress Ruth Tate congratulated the City’s residents for their generosity in donating goods for distribution at the event.

“Every year the incredible community spirit of the Gold Coast shines through when we need it most,” Mrs Tate said.

“This has become such an important event for our city’s most vulnerable and I’m pleased to announced that this year we will extend the donation period until 10 August.

“Just one or two items, no matter how small or large, could make such a difference to people.”

Goods can be dropped off at the Upper Coomera Community Centre, Helensvale Library and Cultural Centre, Runaway Bay Library, City of Gold coast Nerang Administration Centre, Southport Library, Metricon Stadium, ABC Gold Coast Studio and Robina Community Centre and Elanora Library.

The Gold Coast SUNS have volunteered more than 26,000 hours in the community over the last five years, while driving an 82 per cent growth in grass roots football in the city.