YOUTH Futures will benefit from a silent auction and fundraising auction sundowner, which was part of the 2016 Wanneroo Business Expo.
Wanneroo Business Association business liaison officer Lauren McGee said the more than $3000 raised on the night would be handed over to Youth Futures at the Wanneroo Business Association annual general meeting on Wednesday, July 20.
The money will pay for a youth team on the Pipeline Challenge fundraiser taking place later this year.
Youth Futures business development manager Felicity Lockyer said on any given night up to 6000 young Western Australians did not have a place to call home.
“Instead they will sleep rough on the streets, in their cars or couch surf with friends,’’ she said.
“Although the reasons why are varied, more often than not being homeless is considered a safer option than staying at home.
“Youth Futures believe that every young person has a right to safe, secure accommodation and in 1988 opened their first homelessness service TINOCA, a crisis accommodation refuge that is still running today.’’
From July to January alone, the crisis accommodation helped 1508 youths within the City of Wanneroo.
Ms Lockyer said Youth Futures soon realised it took a lot more than a roof over someone’s head to break the cycle of poverty and disadvantage.
“So to help young people address their underlying issues and reach their potential we adopted a holistic approach.
“Twenty-eight years later, we now offer a range of homelessness, support and alternative education programs that assist over 3100 young people each year.
“Every young person we help has a different story and a different reason for seeking our support.
“The reasons are diverse but generally include mental health issues, domestic violence, family breakdown, physical and sexual abuse and learning difficulties to name a few.’’
The Pipeline Challenge, which runs from September 25-29 is a mountain biking adventure that gives cyclists the opportunity to challenge themselves while raising much needed funds for disadvantaged young Western Australians.
If you are interested in sponsoring the Pipeline Challenge please email felicityl@youthfutureswa.com.au
