SVP finds hidden poverty on Australia's Gold Coast

With its spectacular beaches, sunshine and crystal clear sea, The Gold Coast attracts millions of tourists from around the world each year. But a Catholic charity has discovered a darker side to Australia's premier tourist destination. Volunteers with the local St Vincent de Paul Society have found that when the visitors return to their hotels at night, homeless single fathers and their children go to sleep on the beaches or in their cars. And it says the problem is growing. SVP Gold Coast regional president Stephen Murray told the Brisbane Catholic Leader, that the organisation has counted up to 25 homeless fathers and their children on the tourist strip every night. Murray explained that while various church groups did provide support for single mothers with children on the Gold Coast - there was nothing available for men with children. The SVP is now seeking government and business funding to build accommodation for this group. Source: Church Resources/Brisbane Catholic Leader