Youth Homelessness Matters Day was Wednesday 19 April 2023
Did you know that almost 40,000 young people aged 15–24 years presented alone to a homelessness service in 2021–22? Of these young people, almost half experienced mental ill-health and over one third experienced domestic and family violence.
The majority of these young people were in need of short or long-term accommodation and most were turned away due to a lack of capacity. These statistics only scratch the surface of issues that young people experiencing homelessness face.
Youth Homelessness Matters Day (YHMD) is a national day that was conceived in 1990 to raise awareness and public discussion about child and youth homelessness.
Over the years, it has grown into a national celebration of young people’s resilience and an important day of advocacy for sustainable and innovative solutions to support the needs of children and young people at risk of or experiencing homelessness.
This year Yfoundations is calling for the development of a standalone National Child and Youth Homelessness and Housing Strategy.
You can support Yfoundations by signing the petition for change or you can also donate to make a difference.
Pathfinders held a free community event in Armidale to mark the day, to draw awareness to youth homelessness in New England.
The event attracted a number of Armidale residents to the Armidale Skate Park, for arts and crafts activities a skateboarding demonstration, live music and a free sausage sizzle.
Supported By Pathfinders Specialist Homelessness Support Service, Pathfinders Armidale Youth Refuge and the NSW Homeless Youth Assistance Program.
