Innovative project supports ECEC employees and out-of-home teens to have strong start

An innovative new project in Sydney will support more than 50 young people who are leaving out-of-home care by providing secure housing and access to specialist services and support to help them break the cycle of disadvantage.

 

The project, to be named Foyer Central, will also provide 20 affordable units, managed by social housing provider St George Community Housing (SGCH), for “low-income workers such as childcare staff,” the announcement outlined. 

 

Speaking about the project New South Wales Treasurer, Dominic Perrottet said he hoped it 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,” he added.

 

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, and will be delivered by the NSW Government in partnership with SGCH, Uniting Communities, Social Ventures Australia and the City of Sydney. 

 

NSW 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.

  

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. 

 

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.

 

For more information, visit www.foyercentral.org.au.