Among the recipients is 51-year-old Brendon Benell.

Brendon Benell, 51, is among hundreds who are grateful for a weekly hot meal provided by Yayah Scaf. Source: SBS / Christopher Tan

“Homelessness is getting worse, and there are many more people on the streets now,” he said. “A lot of people are quick to judge. They don’t understand what we’re going through.”

“We are seeing more and more people who have never presented to homelessness services before,” said Kath Snell, CEO of Shelter WA.

Kath Snell, CEO of Shelter WA, says homelessness services in the state are stretched. Source: Supplied / Shannon Dunn / Shelter WA

“Unfortunately, new figures also reveal that many people in Western Australia are being turned away from accommodation assistance,” she said.

“While turning up to a service is a brave thing to do, we would prefer people have somewhere safe to call home and enough money to put food on the table and pay their own medical expenses,” Snell said.

“Perth and Adelaide remain top performers in terms of price growth and the most competitive capital cities for renters as well,” she said.

Nicola Powell is chief of research and economics at Domain Insight. Source: Supplied / Domain

It’s a trend that’s driving homelessness numbers nationwide. The Australian Bureau of Statistics predicts almost 130,000 people will experience homelessness this year.

The report’s most recent figures state that up to 1,400 people reported sleeping rough in the past month.

“It is why I have time for other people who are struggling. The more I help people, the more peace I find in my heart.”

Ade Scaf with volunteers in the kitchen of her cafe in Perth. Source: SBS / Christopher Tan

The meals Scaf and her team distribute are provided free of charge, through her business, KwikFud Cafe by Warung Ade. And the service is growing steadily, thanks to donations and a small army of volunteers.

“By four o’clock every Friday afternoon, I’ll be driving the van to the city with more volunteers there to do the serving as well.”

Ade Scaf with her Australian husband Johannes, at the KwikFud Cafe. Source: SBS / Christopher Tan

As a mother of three and proud Muslin, Scaf says that, by gifting food, she’s helping to ease Islamophobia and bring the community closer.

“So, even in storms we just continue our work.”

Ade Scaf with her team of volunteers setting up the free food handout. Source: SBS / Christopher Tan

“My children sometimes ask me: “Mum, when do you think you’re going to stop?