In an interview with SBS Kurdish, Rev Bill Crews spoke about the increasing pressure on homelessness and community support services across Sydney as the cost-of-living crisis continues. He said the Rev Bill Crews Foundation currently provides around 1,600 meals each day through its kitchen, restaurant, and mobile food vans operating across 16 locations. Alongside food services, the organisation delivers free medical, dental, social work, and literacy programs, while also supporting refugees and disadvantaged communities.
Rev Bill Crews said rising rents and housing shortages are among the biggest challenges facing Australians, noting that many working people can no longer afford basic living costs. He revealed that demand for support services has increased by 39% since Easter, describing the need as “bottomless and endless.”
The interview also highlighted the foundation’s Winter Support Campaign, which provides blankets, warm clothing, flu and COVID vaccinations, showers, toiletries, and emergency assistance for vulnerable individuals and families during colder months. Around 80 volunteers contribute daily to the organisation’s work.
Speaking about the foundation’s philosophy of helping “the person in front of us,” Rev Crews said support should focus on individual needs rather than treating everyone the same. He also stressed the importance of helping refugees and defending human freedom, recalling past support provided to Kurdish refugees from Kobani during the war.
The interview concluded with Rev Bill Crews reaffirming the foundation’s mission to advocate for vulnerable people and build a more compassionate society.
Ji bo bihîstina babetên din serî li sbs.com.au/language/kurdish/ku/guhdar-bike
