On World Homeless Day and World Mental Health Day on 10 October, Hope Street acknowledges the strengths and resilience of the thousands of young people and young families experiencing homelessness each year.   We are inspired by their abilities in living each day whilst coping with the impact of not having a safe home, including instability, poverty and poor mental health.  Hope Street is here to support you.

Many of the primary causes of homelessness are structural, in particular the severe shortage of affordable public and social housing as well as incomes that keep people entrenched in poverty.  Resolving homelessness is the responsibility of federal, state and local governments and local communities.  The recently-released Federal Budget is a clear demonstration of the Federal Government woefully and purposefully neglecting to meet its responsibilities.  The Victorian and local governments were major partners enabling Hope Street to build a leading purpose-designed youth refuge in the metropolitan western growth corridor.  This much-needed centre for vulnerable young people was also strongly supported by the wider community with over 40 companies and groups making significant contributions.  Hope Street looks forward to further social initiatives in partnership with the Victorian and local governments and our community to build a society in which all young people and young families have a safe place to call home.  The Federal Government needs to step up.