In December, Hope Street Youth and Family Services welcomed Federal Government representative and Member for Scullin, Andrew Giles MP to visit and tour the new First Response Youth Service centre. 
 
Andrew was able to see how this nation leading, culturally safe and therapeutically designed youth housing solution is now part of the local community in Melbourne’s northern eastern growth corridor.  
 
This impactful design features 12 emergency response beds being provided to young people, including two units dedicated to young families, one specifically for First Nations young families. 

Andrew was able to see the beautiful therapeutic and primarily edible gardens, and tour the disability accessible units, laundry, bathrooms, kitchen, study area, and art therapy / games room space.  

The community in the City of Whittlesea is now home to this brand-new youth housing solution to address inequity for young people and young families.  

With over 850 people recorded as homeless in the City of Whittlesea on census night 2021, Hope Street’s tested and successful program model will provide emergency accommodation and essential services to 100 young people including young people with children impacted by homelessness.  

Specialist youth focused services will be provided on site, with a professional team of youth workers and case managers, who will assist each young person to assess their individual needs and circumstances. The worker, jointly with the young person, will develop a plan, provide support and access to resources to enable the young person to achieve their goals in-particular health and wellbeing, education or employment, social connection, and ultimately a safe place to call home.