What is it?
Built on the working class origins and struggles of the Collingwood Football Club and surrounding community.
Over generations, we have never forgotten our origins; providing our community a sense of hope, pride and a place to belong. Our 'A Nest for All' program pays homage to our Club and community’s history.
The Collingwood Football Club are proud to have been innovating and pioneering in this space, forging a partnership with Project 614 and Commanding Officer of the Salvation Army, Brendan Nottle to support those in our community who are most vulnerable and isolated.
Our vision
To ensure everyone has a place to belong. A place to call home and feel warm, fed, safe and connected.
'A Nest for All' aims to put its arms around those who ultilise our services and participate in our programs and ensure they are always part of the Collingwood family.
video coming soon
Magpie Nest Café
Magpie Nest Housing
Collingwood Magpies Community Football Team
Wheelchair Football
Why is it important to us?
Our aim is to put our arms around those who we meet through our programs, and support those in our community who are experiencing homelessness, mental illness, disability, substance abuse, domestic violence and social and economic hardship.
Because... 55% of those in the Reclink program reported experiencing homelessness, used drugs or alcohol regularly, were involved with Police or spent time in a correctional centre before joining the program. (LaTrobe Reclink Report, 2023)
Because...
“homelessness is not a choice. Homelessness is one of the most potent examples of disadvantage in the community, and one of the most important markers of social exclusion.” (Department of Human Services, 2022).
Because...
“The Foodbank Hunger Report revealed that 3.7 million households in Australia have run out of food in the last year.” (Foodbank Hunger Report, 2023).
Because... domestic violence is the single biggest cause of homelessness in Australia, followed by mental health and sudden life changes. (via Mission Australia)
Because... 1 in 6 (17%) of people with a disability aged 15-16 experience social isolation. (Australian Institute
of Health and Welfare, 2022).
How are we bringing our vision to life?
Through our 'A Nest for All' pillars - our areas of focus that drive the programs strategic objectives and actions.
Housing
Providing a roof over people's heads and a safe place to call home by providing refuge for victims of domestic violence, those recently out of incarceration or those who are experiencing homelessness.
Food Security
By providing food and a sense of safety and belonging at the Magpie Nest Café, whilst also aiming to increase the wrap around services to all who visit.
Belonging
Ensuring everyone feels like they have a place to belong and connect, with community football teams the anchor of the connection to the Collingwood community.
Our partnership with the Collingwood Football Club Community Foundation extends beyond financial support. We are delighted to help through volunteering and fundraising initiatives, such as Major Brendan Nottle’s winter sleepout that occurred in July, where we proudly matched Foundation donations across the weekend, and the support through food and hamper donations at annual events, such as the Magpie Nest Footy Finals and Christmas Day lunch.
Patrick Hassett, Coles Group
Community and Stakeholder Engagement Manager,
Corporate & Indigenous Affairs
Support the Community Foundation
All donations over $2 are tax deductible.
