A local charity in Geelong has received a financial boost following the sale of a home in Lara, made possible through the generosity of Bisinella Developments and a network of partners.

Lot 337 at Lara Lakes Estate was donated by Bisinella to Samaritan House Geelong in June 2024, with proceeds from the sale set to fund the charity’s operations over the next four years.

The funds will support the organisation’s work providing crisis accommodation and essential services to men experiencing homelessness in the Geelong region.

Construction of the home was completed in April this year and following strong interest and three open home inspections, a sale was secured within 30 days on 5 May.

The property was purchased the following month by first-home buyers from Altona Meadows for $675,000. Settlement is expected on 23 June 2025.

Samaritan House Geelong Director Wally Pelaccia said Bisinella’s contribution was deeply impactful.

“The success of this project is a reflection of the power of community partnerships,” he said.

“Bisinella’s donation will underpin our operations for the next four years, giving us stability and allowing us to plan ahead.”

The home was built by Hamlan Homes, with styling by Moda Interior Styling. Landscaping was arranged and funded by Bisinella as a further donation to the project.

Coulter Legal, a long-standing supporter of Samaritan House Geelong, provided the conveyancing for both the land donation and the property sale.

“Coulter Legal has been a dedicated supporter of Samaritan House Geelong since its inception and is proudly acting as the vendor's pro bono partner to facilitate the sale,” Wally said.

Bisinella Developments Director Richard Bisinella said they were proud to support such an important cause.

“Homelessness is a critical issue across Australia that Bisinella Developments and our partners are committed to solving at a local level,” Richard said.

“Supporting organisations like Samaritan House is one way we can help make a real difference to people’s lives.

“We are grateful to have been a part of this fantastic initiative and look forward to welcoming the new homeowners into our Lara Lakes Estate.”

Established in 2012, Wally said Samaritan House Geelong offers much more than shelter.

“It’s a space to reconnect, to build friendships and to believe in a better tomorrow,” Wally said.

“Guests often form bonds that lead to shared work opportunities and long-term housing, helping to break the cycle of homelessness.

“Support of Samaritan House Geelong enables those men who have fallen on hard times a chance to breathe and reevaluate their lives.”

Inspired by the success of this initiative, Samaritan House Geelong has placed the idea of a second home build on its agenda, although no immediate plans are in place.

For more information or to donate to Samaritan House Geelong, visit: https://samaritanhouse.org.au