National Youth Week is in full swing, as local councils across the country acknowledge the importance of celebrating young people and investing in youth services.
Bundaberg Regional Council in Queensland is taking the opportunity to highlight the issue of youth homelessness throughout the region.
The organisation is facilitating a dedicated ‘RE:ACT Youth Month’ throughout all of April.
Council’s Youth Development Officer Andrea Bax said the initiative – developed in partnership with community organisations and young people – aims to raise awareness of the various impacts of homelessness.
“A lot of people think being homeless means not having a roof over your head.
“In reality, homelessness can take many forms. It can see someone sleeping rough in a park for the night, sheltering in their car, couch surfing or simply being in a situation where they do not feel safe.”
During the month, Council is set to host Youth Homelessness Matters Day events in Bundaberg, Childers and Gin Gin to raise awareness about the issue.
“We’ll be setting up public displays in each area to encourage people to start the conversation about youth homelessness,” Ms Bax said.
“Students from local schools will be involved by helping us to prepare the displays made from large cardboard houses which we have asked them to decorate with their idea of ‘home’.”
During the month, young people in the region aged between 12 and 25 can also participate in workshops regarding career pathways and life skills and attend a Stress Connection Art Show.
