More than 50 young people leaving out-of-home care will soon move into a first-of-its-kind development in Sydney, providing secure housing and access to specialist services and support to help them break the cycle of disadvantage.
Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said Foyer Central would give young people leaving care the best possible start to adulthood as they undertake work, study or training.
“This landmark project will give many of our most vulnerable teenagers the chance to get back on track. Homelessness is a tragedy and it’s initiatives like Foyer Central and the access to secure housing and practical support they provide that can actually help break the cycle and change lives for the better,” Mr Perrottet said.
Foyer Central is based on the globally successful foyer model and will be targeted at young people aged 18 to 22 who have left out-of-home care.
Minister for Families, Communities and Disability Services Gareth Ward said the development includes 53 self-contained units in close proximity to transport, shops, services and education institutions.
“Foyer Central is about unlocking opportunities for young people and enabling and empowering them to achieve their full potential in life,” Mr Ward said.
Services delivered through the project will be funded primarily through a Social Impact Bond. The bonds combine investment and expertise from the public, private and not-for-profit sectors to achieve specific social goals. Partners with the NSW Government in the project include SGCH, Uniting, Social Ventures Australia and the City of Sydney.
Uniting Executive Director Tracey Burton said a team of dedicated Youth Development Coaches will mentor and connect young people to education institutions, employment opportunities, health and wellbeing services and community initiatives.
“We want young people living at Foyer Central to feel proud of where they live, and that they can create the positive, diverse and dynamic environment they want. A space supported by talented, capable coaches providing 24/7 support,” Ms Burton said.
SGCH CEO Scott Langford said the property also includes 20 affordable units, managed by SGCH, for low-income workers such as childcare staff.
“Foyer Central brings together the capability, expertise and dedication of a range of partners with the common goal to change young lives through opportunity,” Mr Langford said.
For more information, visit www.foyercentral.org.au.