Helping Anglicare care for youth experiencing homelessness at tax time
Justice & Advocacy
Anglicare Southern Queensland believes that every young person deserves to come home to a positive living environment where they know they are cared for and where they feel safe and supported. That is why they have committed to building a $13 million specialist youth homelessness service in Beenleigh that aims to address the escalating housing crisis
Leo* began sleeping rough at just 14 years old. He came from a “good” family with everything a child should have. But, he was battling an inner turmoil that caused a rift between him and his family, and was destroying his life.
When Leo first came to Anglicare, he was still just a child, alone on the streets, scared and needing help.
Recent data shows that nearly a quarter of Australians experiencing homelessness are aged between 12 and 24. As the number of young people in Queensland facing homelessness rises, there simply is not enough accommodation to keep them off the streets.
Adequate housing is a fundamental human right. Quality housing is proven to have positive psychological and psychosocial impacts as well as enhancing independence and self-agency.
Anglicare believes that every young person deserves to come home to a positive living environment where they know they are cared for and where they feel safe and supported. That is why they have committed to building a $13 million specialist youth homelessness service in Beenleigh that aims to address the escalating housing crisis.
Anglicare Southern Queensland Chief Executive Officer Sue Cooke, said that the 30-unit accommodation project in Beenleigh is designed to support young people aged 16-25, who are either experiencing homelessness, or at significant risk of experiencing homelessness.
“Anglicare Southern Queensland is committed to doing all that we can to help alleviate the housing crisis. We are pleased to commit to this significant project, that will support both the immediate need and the long-term success for vulnerable young people, like Leo,” Mrs Cooke said.
In addition to accommodation, residents will also receive a suite of wrap-around support services to help improve life skills and increase independence, while providing the care and connections these young people need, through a case-planned process.
We know that with stable housing and the right support network, young people can positively change their life trajectory by securing employment, education and long-term housing.
“At Anglicare, we’re here to help those at risk to find a home, but we can’t do it alone,” Mrs Cooke said.
Anglicare Southern Queensland is seeking tax-deductible donations from the community this tax time. Your kindness now can give young people, like Leo, a safe place to stay and help them to rebuild their lives.
* Name has been changed to protect privacy. Image is representative only.
Editor’s note: To donate to Anglicare’s $13 million specialist youth homelessness service in Beenleigh this tax time, visit the Anglicare Southern Queensland website.
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