In 1992 , a small grant of money was made available from the then East Gippsland Regional Housing Council. Two project workers, Chris McNamara and Robyn Hodge, were employed to undertake a needs analysis of the most appropriate type of housing for people with mental illness. The report “Peace of Mind”, was launched at a public meeting in Bairnsdale.
As a result of this meeting a committee of interested people, comprising professionals from Gippsland Psychiatric services, community workers, clients and carers was formed to address the situation.
In May 1993 SNAP was granted a Group House through the Office of Housing. A 2 bedroom unit was purchased and 2 clients who needed minimal support were chosen to reside in the unit, at this stage SNAP had no support worker. Assistance to the residents was provided by committee members.
In August 1993 4 more properties were purchased and a fulltime worker employed. Kate Graham was highly skilled and gave SNAP all her energy, with this SNAP flourished and many major projects were completed including the mosaic tiling on the roundabout on Bailey Street in Bairnsdale.
There was a emerging need for a similar service in the Sale area and following a grant from the Wellington Shire, SNAP was able to conduct a needs analysis of the current psychiatric services and projected needs within the Wellington Shire. A report titled “Beyond Crisis” was launched at a public forum and following a public meeting by the Wellington Shire, SNAP was identified as the preferred provider of psychiatric disability support services within the Shire.
SNAP was successful in winning tenders to provide increased services under the Housing and Support program in Bairnsdale and Lakes Entrance and psycho-social rehabilitation programs in Bairnsdale, Sale and Yarram.
SNAP employs in excess of 10 staff, including sessional workers, has several dedicated volunteers, and has nomination rights to 25 housing units located in Bairnsdale, Sale and Lakes Entrance and provides day programs in Bairnsdale, Sale, Orbost and Yarram.