Projects: Support youth homelessness
Locations: Melbourne, Australia
Part of HoMie’s response is to host ‘VIP Days’ for young people affected by homelessness. At least 12 times a year HoMie closes its store to the public for the day, inviting young people affected by homelessness to choose complimentary brand-new clothing of their choice, while enjoying haircuts, beauty treatments and lunch with the HoMie team.
On the 12th of April 2023, we welcomed HoMie, on the crisis that is on any given night, over 28,000 young Australians aged 12-24 are homeless. These young people often face social and community isolation, and experience social stigmas limiting their opportunities.
VIP Days provide young people with a day of pampering and fun, to increase their confidence, experience community connection, a sense of belonging and acceptance as VIPs.
Key insights
What does HoMie do?Â
Nick Pearce:
What’s currently happening in Australia with youth homelessness?Â
Nick Pearce:
Youth homelessness is worsening, and our data relies on the latest census from 2021. It reveals that both overall homelessness and youth homelessness have increased. Unfortunately, this issue continues to grow.
Notably, 12-24-year-olds constitute 23-24% of the homeless population, despite making up only 16% of the Australian population. The most recent census also shows that over 122,000 people experience homelessness on any given night, with 58% of them being under 34 years old, highlighting the prevalence of youth homelessness.
What are the impacts of the funds raised for HoMie through the i=Change platform?Â
Jack Howes:
The funds raised support the VIP project, which organises VIP Days for struggling youth in Melbourne. These funds cover clothing, hairdressing, and beauty services, making these days possible at a cost of approximately $100 per young person.
Additionally, we provide customised VIP packs to support services in collaboration with community partners. These initiatives offer a positive introduction to the broader HoMie ecosystem.
$100 provides a VIP Day for a young person affected by homelessness or hardship
Be the change today.Â
