Transitional Housing Project
SunnyKids Transitional Housing Project
Access to safe, stable housing is critical for families escaping domestic and family violence. In response to the growing housing crisis, SunnyKids is building six transitional townhouses on the Sunshine Coast to provide vulnerable families with a supported pathway from crisis to independence.
Thanks to the generosity of key community partners—including Firefly Education, local philanthropists, legal experts, builders, and service providers—the first three homes are fully funded and under construction.
We’re now seeking support to complete the remaining three homes, which will collectively provide 5,475 bed nights annually and help 132 individuals each year.
This project gives families the stability to heal, save for a bond, establish a rental history, and access wraparound support, helping them transition to long-term housing and a brighter future.
Together, we’re building more than homes—we’re rebuilding lives.
Our Sponsors
As long-time supporters of SunnyKids, Ann Smales and Peter Stannard of Firefly Education have played a pivotal role in bringing the Transitional Housing Project to life. The idea for the project began with a conversation and a vision—Ann and Peter approached SunnyKids CEO Kathleen Hope with land and a desire to make a meaningful, long-term difference for families in need.
After years of wanting to give back in the area of social housing, the time finally felt right. A turning point came after attending a P100 event, where they heard first-hand accounts of the desperate housing shortage facing families on the Sunshine Coast. That moment became the catalyst to take action.
Read more about FireFly Education here
Griffiths Parry Lawyers & Notary is a long-time supporter of SunnyKids and a proud contributor to the Transitional Housing Project, offering critical legal support to help bring the project to life. Their expertise ensured a smooth and favourable outcome for SunnyKids in securing the land and agreements necessary to begin building safe, stable homes for vulnerable families on the Sunshine Coast.
At the heart of this support is Sammy-Lee Brown, a bright and compassionate young solicitor who has taken the lead on the project within the firm. Sammy-Lee is committed to using her legal skills to make a real impact in the community as she establishes her practice locally. She has chosen SunnyKids as the cause she dedicates her time and effort to—driven by a desire to give back and support families facing crisis.
Read more about Griffiths Parry here
Coastal View Homes Pty Ltd has played a vital role in bringing SunnyKids’ Transitional Housing Project to life. With decades of experience and a heart for community, James and Kerrie McCartney have contributed their expertise and services at a discounted rate, ensuring high-quality homes are built with compassion and care.
Their involvement in the project was inspired by a long-standing professional and personal relationship with fellow supporters Peter Stannard and Ann Smales from Firefly Education, who they’ve had the pleasure of working with over the past 30 years. When approached about the initiative, James and Kerrie immediately recognised its potential to make a lasting difference in the lives of vulnerable families on the Sunshine Coast.
Read more about Coastal View homes here
Talking Business Co is proud to support the SunnyKids Transitional Housing Project by providing essential internet and telephony services to each home at a greatly discounted rate. Their contribution ensures that families in crisis are not just housed, but connected—giving them access to support services, job opportunities, education, and a vital link to community.
For Managing Director Brett Merriman, this support is deeply personal. It’s a continuation of a dream shared with his late wife, who was passionate about helping children in need. Together, they supported international children’s programs for many years, but eventually felt drawn to addressing child poverty closer to home.
Read more about Talking Business Co here
