In the face of a persistent housing crisis and the growing challenge of homelessness, Zac’s Place continues to serve as a sanctuary of hope, compassion, and community and it plans to carry that mission forward into next year.

Di Duursma, director of Zac’s Place and project manager of Wang Night Shelter, affirmed their commitment to continue, driven by the voices of those they serve, by providing a meal and safe place to sleep overnight.

“People on the ground are telling us we need to keep going,” Di said.

“We’re hearing from our guests how meaningful it was to stay with us and the difference it made in their lives. So we plan to continue next year.”

While the road ahead remains long, the journey so far has been transformative—not only for those who walk through its doors, but for the wider community that rallies around it.

This year, Zac’s Place welcomed visitors from other communities, each eager to learn from its model.

One of the most exciting developments was the launch of the Benalla Homelessness Shelter—a sister initiative born from four years of shared volunteer experience at Zac’s Place.

“We’re thrilled to see Benalla take off,” Di said.

“Its success is a testament to the idea that what happens at Zac’s Place is not just meaningful—it’s replicable.

"We believe it’s a repeatable miracle, and it’s contagious.

"When people come together, share what they have, and work as a community, we can make a real difference.”

However, sustaining this work requires ongoing support.

“People come seeking essentials—food, warmth, and human connection,” Di explained.

“They often stay to share their stories over a warm drink, receiving emotional support and friendship.

"We’re always in need of financial donations to keep Zac’s Place going and prepare for next year.”

As the vision and steering team reflected at the end of winter, they agreed: this has been the shelter’s best year from a management perspective.

“We believe in the power of a repeatable miracle,” Di reiterated.

“When people unite in care and generosity, change becomes contagious.

"Our dream isn’t just to sustain Zac’s Place—it’s to see shelters like it flourish across the region.”

Every day, Zac’s Place meets people where they are—offering food, blankets, sleeping bags, and most importantly, connection.

"Guests come not only for physical necessities, but for emotional support and friendship," Di said.

"Sometimes, a warm drink and a listening ear can be just as life-changing as a bed for the night."

The shelter community is already looking ahead to next winter, welcoming all to be part of the shelter in 2026, running from 1 June to 31 August.

Those who wish to financially support the cause can donate at Bendigo Bank to Zac's Place Inc, ref. Wang, BSB 633000, Acc.no.155600257 or The Wang Night Shelter has accounts that people can donate directly to at Everyday Gourmet and La Bella Rocca.

To get involved or for more information, contact Wang Night Shelter via email at wangnightshelter@gmail.com.