Emmanuel City Mission – Bringing meaningful change to those need it most

A long-standing commitment to Emmanuel City Mission

The incredibly distressing surge in homelessness across South East Queensland has intensified our unwavering attention to assisting Emmanuel City Mission, with whom we share a fundamental belief in the transformative power of compassion and community support as essential tools for addressing this urgent issue.

Our partnership with ECM spans over two years, initially starting with staff volunteering and financial contributions. It has now evolved into a multifaceted collaboration. We are immensely inspired by individuals like Roby and his dedicated team at ECM, who have selflessly devoted their lives to helping others.

Below is a conversation with ECM Director Roby Curtis exploring the critical work they do to bring about meaningful change in the lives of those who need it most. 

When and why did you start ECM – was there a defining moment behind the decision?  

Emmanuel City Mission was born out of a personal passion and conviction to serve the vulnerable of the local community and recognise a need for a space that offsets idle time in life’s most difficult seasons.  

How many visitors do you receive on average per week? What portion would be regular visitors?  

It varies. We can feed anywhere from 120 – 180 people on any given day, recognising seasonal change…most of our visitors would be classified as regulars.

Probably around 70%. The other 30% that come in are a transient group of people; for example, those that are homeless on a short-term basis, or made homeless quite suddenly. Most of the visitors, however, we know by name. The space is a ‘family living room’ to many.  

What is the most common misconception about homelessness and the homeless?  

The label [homeless] itself is an issue for our community; it’s a barrier. The misconception is that there is an element of danger involved, and then there are stereotypes around a person’s physical appearance or behavioural patterns.  

At Emmanuel City Mission, we refer to the people who come through our doors as ‘visitors’ rather than clients or ‘homeless people’.  

What difference has ECM’s partnership with Mosaic made so far?  

Emmanuel City Mission’s partnership with Mosaic has literally kept our doors open. We are community-funded, and Mosaic has contributed to our lease, operations cost, staffing overheads, utilities, daily resources, monthly meals, volunteers…the list goes on!   

Mosaic has made an incredible difference in the lives of Brisbane’s homeless and vulnerable. It is a true honour and privilege to serve alongside Mosaic.

What has been the most rewarding part of the journey so far?  

It is so rewarding to see a visitor return after their season of homelessness and have them share the good things that have happened in their lives since. 

This happened just today when a gentleman who had been a recipient of our services decided to give back to our community by donating $50 to the cost of running a day here.  

Regarding our journey with Mosaic, it has been incredibly rewarding to have the team sponsor the meal here monthly, whereby Mosaic and ECM join forces at the coalface to share in Mission.  

What are some of the biggest challenges for homeless people overcoming their adversity?  

Criminal history, substance use and abuse are some of the biggest challenges to overcoming adversity. Also, the cost of ‘entry-level’ housing and the cost of living is a big factor. Housing in that ‘entry-level’ range is still too expensive for those coming off the street. 

What is most critical to their journey to getting back on their feet?  

Self-worth, self-determination and advocacy are critical. It is critical to be part of a community that believes in them. Social structures that support connection and inclusion are absolutely vital in helping someone get back on their feet.  

What are ECM’s main goals for the coming 12 months?  

We are approaching a particularly challenging season, really. We are on the move and in search of a new, purpose-built venue for our services. With the next 12 months ‘up in the air,’ so to speak, we continue our commitment to serving the homeless and vulnerable of our city. Our community has trusted us to serve them during COVID, and we ask that they continue to trust us now as we approach a new season of ministry.

How many volunteers do you have?  

It can be hard to say at times as it is very dependent on the season, too. We have volunteers come to us from schools, universities, parish groups, and a whole range of places. When you look at the sum of these over a year, it is well over 100 people. Outside of that, we also have our core group of volunteers, and these are people who will come in at least once a week. We’d have about a handful of these people on each day. 

How can people get involved in supporting ECM?  

If you would like to get involved with supporting Emmanuel City Mission, you are welcome to send us an email at contact@ecm.org.au.

We have a wonderful volunteering community and stewards who make it possible for us to serve the vulnerable of our city.

Donate to ECM’s Annual Christmas Appeal

Christmas can often be the most challenging time of year for people experiencing homelessness when just thinking about it can trigger unhappy memories, and there is no family to welcome you home.

ECM’s annual Christmas Appeal is a way for people to unite to make a meaningful difference and help keep the doors open to those in desperate need of assistance, a meal, or a friendly face.

Every donation, no matter the size, makes a tangible impact, spreading warmth and kindness to those who need it most. Click to learn more.

About the Mosaic Foundation

Our philanthropic aspirations run deep, grounded in a profound sense of responsibility to give back to the communities that have helped nurture our growth.

Through the Mosaic Foundation, we are truly privileged to have forged strong and meaningful connections with a diverse array of grassroots organisations. These remarkable partnerships are dedicated to bringing about genuine positive change, particularly in areas such as shelter and equality, healthcare, and the welfare of vulnerable and disadvantaged youth.

Together, we aspire to create a positive and lasting impact on the well-being of our communities and, where possible, beyond.

Click here to learn more about the Mosaic Foundation and the organisations we passionately support.