Evan, aged 15, is currently engaged with Youthlinks in Griffith. He says the service has given him some invaluable skills, including how to cook a mean honey soy chicken. 

“They teach us a lot of things like how to live independently. They have a couple of programs just to help us with cooking skills, living skills and community sports,” he said. 

“My favourite thing so far has probably been the cooking class.” 

The Youth Links work with young homeless people to access social and private Housing Pathways by delivering in-service programs to assist in accessing and sustaining housing opportunities. 

Youth Links’ Deb Longhurst says the issue is only growing. 

“The recent census showed that there had been a massive growth in homelessness among young people alone,” she said. 

“There’s definitely an increase over all, but there’s young people in particular.” 

RELATED:

It’s estimated that more 44,000 homeless young people with no safe place to sleep each night. 

Around 50 per cent of all young people are under the age of 35. 

She says young people may need to leave home for any number of reasons, but struggle obtain a formal identification documents.

It’s something that might appear daunting at fist, but Ms Longhurst says through her work with young people engaging with local services she’s seen plenty get back on their feet. 

“We’re pretty good at doing it now. We can get most people across the line,” she said. 

Evan says if any of his friends were experiencing something similar, he’d advise them to reach out. 

The group want to take the opportunity to raise more awareness of the issue on Youth Homelessness Matters Day. 

They’re hosting a free pool party at the Griffith Acquatic Centre on April 18 from 2pm – 7pm. 

Evans says he’s looking forward to meeting new people. 

“It’ll be good to see new faces and see if anyone else needs any help.”