Young people aged 19-24 have the highest rates of homelessness than any other age group. Each year around 40,000 children and young people aged 15-24 access homelessness services, increasingly presenting on their own, without the support of an adult. For young people who can’t live safely at home, the chronic lack of youth appropriate housing in Australia means difficult choices between staying in danger, or becoming homeless.
Youth Homelessness Matters more than ever, and we’re responding.
Young people in Australia are entering homelessness at increasing rates, couch surfing and staying in insecure accommodation to avoid sleeping rough.
Join us as we rally support to take action on youth homelessness, helping to provide safe housing and essential support.
Why your support is needed.
”“Housing right now is a very difficult space for young people generally. Those who are escaping family violence; experiencing poor mental health, living in poverty, and more - require a truly safe and supportive space to call their own.”
Twenty10 Association
is what young people on Youth Allowance have to live on per day, after rent.
young Australians are experiencing homelessness tonight
young people are being turned away from Specialist Homelessness Services
Your donations create real change.
Meet Maria and Jaia
Maria (23) and her daughter Jaia (5) have been navigating homelessness for the duration of Jaia’s life. Maria and Jaia have been living in overcrowded conditions within an extended family member’s home, forcing them to share a bed, and when things are tense at the house, Maria couch-surfs at friends’ places. It’s an unstable situation for Maria and young Jaia to be in, and constantly moving from place to place means that Maria’s social connections are further weakened.
”"This funding will make an immediate, and practical impact for young people aged 16-24 experiencing rough and vulnerable sleeping. It gives us the flexibility to provide food and/ or groceries, telecommunications, transport costs, clothing and warmth, as well as safe emergency shelter and wrap around support."
2023 Grant Recipient
Past support for children and young people
Since inception, StreetSmart has recognised the need for specific responses to the needs of children, young people, and their families facing homelessness. We boost funding for grassroot services so that they can better prevent, respond and end homelessness for this particularly vulnerable cohort.
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Other options for support
Making A Home
Donate White Goods
For every $250 raised, essential white goods can be provided to a displaced person. Setting up someone for tenancy success is a vital part of any homeless support service.
SleepSafe
Donate a Sleep Kit
For every $15 raised, a sleep kit is provided to a displaced person. Containing a towel, fitted sheet, flat sheet and pillowcase, they are delivered through 643 local community charity partners.
SmartMeals
Donate a Meal
For every $5 raised, a wholesome meal is provided to a displaced person. To date, 316,045 meals have been provided across 150+ Community partners.