A FORMER homeless man is starting a new program in Launceston that is designed to help reduce the desperation of homelessness.
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Kerry McLean was homeless for 25 years and said there was a great need for such a service in the region.
He plans to start the God's Squad Street Beat in June, which will see teams of volunteers head out into the night of Launceston to see who might need a hot cup of coffee, a bite to eat, medical care, extra clothing or a listening ear.
This will be done with the help of the Christian motorcycle club God's Squad, and the time and generosity of business, churches and the wider community.
The teams will also help people of all ages who are found drunk or on drugs throughout the night and morning who need assistance.
God's Squad Street Beat director Peter Harris used to assist on a similar program that once operated in Launceston.
"Some of the sights you see, it is mind-boggling. There really needs to be something like this out there," Mr Harris said.
Mr McLean said the plan was to set up a Street Beat trailer in Launceston, hopefully in the mall, that will be manned by teams of two or three people.
"Later in the night another team will head out and check all the homeless squats," Mr McLean said.
"We are not going to preach God down your throat. It is about showing people that there is someone out there, after hours, who actually gives a damn."
Mr McLean said there are many vulnerable people living on the street who would greatly benefit from having a warm or safe place to go after waking up at 2 or 3am, cold and alone.
"Your whole day is desperate. You wake up wondering where you are going to get fed, how you are going to shower, if you are going to be able to wash your clothes. And if you have no money you wonder where you will be able to get some, or you go and do crime," he said.
"I'm hoping to ease that desperation a little bit."