The event marks Youth Homelessness Matters Day, a day when people across Australia recognise the challenges young people face when unable to find stable housing, and their resilience when faced with difficult life circumstances.
Funded by the Clarence City Council, the bags include essential hygiene items that have been put together by members of the community and the Warrane/Mornington Neighbourhood Centre. The bags will be distributed by Loui’s Van in Clarence and surrounding areas.
Mayor Doug Chipman said that Council was very pleased to be able to support the project to show that youth homelessness matters in the City of Clarence.
Layne, from YNAG, said the handover of the bags was an important step in recognising youth homelessness in Clarence and showing support to young people in need.
“Homelessness is an issue that needs to be dealt with, because this is a problem that can affect anyone around us, be they a friend, family member, or stranger,” Layne said.
“YNAG cares about the issue of youth homelessness and wants to contribute to the prevention of all types of homelessness, particularly secondary, which we found to be a key issue in the Clarence area.
“Raising awareness about homelessness and improving the resources young people have access to in Clarence is one of YNAG’s major goals. At the moment, we are currently gathering information and resources as part of our research into the state of homelessness here in Clarence.”
Once YNAG has completed its research it will present the findings to the Clarence City Council for their consideration.
About Clarence City Council’s Youth Network Advisory Group (YNAG):
The Youth Network Advisory Group is the Council’s youth consultative body. Formed over 15 years ago, the Group works with Council to advise on youth related matters, advocate for services and support for youth, and supports Clarence events. They meet fortnightly and regularly participate in community events.
About Warrane/Mornington Neighbourhood Centre:
The Centre has been in operation for 28 years in Clarence. The Centre endeavours to enrich the local community by improving social connectedness, breaking down isolation and providing opportunities for lifelong learning and cultural, recreational and social pursuits in a supportive and friendly environment.
The Centre sees its role in the local community as a vibrant leader that is innovative and flexible in meeting changing needs and attracting a growing community involvement in a welcoming environment and it does this in partnership with a variety of local and state organisations which include Clarence City Council along with local groups and businesses.