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Youth Foyer - A Case Study

Ange Torney

6 June 2024

The Education First Youth Foyer supports young people between the ages of 16 and 24 who are unable to live at home or do not have a stable place to live to achieve their education goals. 

I have been with the Foyer for just mover a year now and I would describe it as being a protected and warm space. 


All residents of the Foyer receive safe secure accommodation while studying, as well as other support and skills to become successful independent adults. 


We receive – 

  • Tools and skills to help achieve our dreams and aspirations; 

  • Access to education, training and employment opportunities; 

  • Training to develop independent living skills through the GOTAFE Certificate 1 in Developing Independence; 

  • The chance to build social connections; 

  • The opportunity to participate in community activities such as volunteering; 

  • Support to find housing when it is time to live independently. 


On my journey I have faced many difficulties, one of the main ones being unsure if I was going to graduate year 12. 


I was lucky, I had a friend to help and I slept on her couch for a month before being accepted into the Foyer. 


But how many of you had to look for a place to sleep while studying? How would your children go in

the same situation?  


My last thought was graduating, but I did because the Foyer allowed me to put education first. 


Acquiring employment is another thing we strive for, but the Foyer residents find this difficult as most don’t have any work experience or qualifications. 


We would love to see businesses opening their arms and welcoming young people to gain that experience. 


When I was applying for jobs it wasn’t until application 30 I even got an interview and it was after 40 applications that if finally landed a job; I now have a traineeship in insurance broking. 


This time next year I’ll be transitioning out of the Foyer into my own place and the thought of that scares me. 


How am I every going to get approved for a rental this young, especially with the rising costs? 


My time at the Foyer has given me the skills to find my words and express myself, to ask for help, to

know there is power in being vulnerable and seeking help. 


The Foyer has helped me to learn and accept there is great strength in recognising when I wasn’t okay and to reach out. 


The only thing I knew how to do when I came here was to stand there and be frightened; most people who come through the Foyer are lost. 


All we need is options and the opportunity to show what we’re really worth. 


If you are a business and you fell you’ve got something, small or big, don’t be afraid to ask if it is something we could advantage from; at least one of our residents would benefit from anything you have to offer. 


If younger me could see me today, I’d give her a hug and tell her, “you’re going places”. 


If you think you can help or would like to know more, email Clark Patching at cpatching@berrystreet.org.au 

Office:

144 Welsford Street,

Shepparton 3630

Mail:

PO Box 603

Shepparton 3632

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