YHARS: supporting homeless young people

Young people in Rockhampton and central Queensland confront numerous obstacles, including issues with homelessness, education, employment, and training.

The rising cost of living is making it more difficult for our youth to embrace a bright future by finding safe and affordable housing, completing their schooling, pursuing careers in further education or employment, and acquiring a source of income to support these areas.

Since 2014, CTC Shaping Futures has funded the Youth Housing and Reintegration Service (YHARS) programme, which has helped approximately 2,500 young people between the ages of 12 and 21.

The YHARS youth team has assisted many young people who have struggled to remain engaged in their studies, attend alternate educational settings, and find and keep jobs because they are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.

YHARS is a joint federal and state-funded initiative, part of the National Partnership Agreement on Homelessness (NPAH).

YHARS is a FREE, confidential service for young people aged 12-21 who are experiencing homelessness or are at risk of becoming homeless.

Young people are assisted and empowered to obtain safe accommodation and develop skills to live independently and become engaged within their community.

YHARS provides support to address a range of key life domains such as:

  • Homelessness
  • Family and personal relationships
  • Education, training and job-related qualifications through to employment
  • Income support and financial difficulties
  • Mental health & well-being
  • Connecting with community and culture

Family dissolution, fleeing domestic violence and/or sexual abuse, clients’ and/or parents’ drug and alcohol problems, newly emerging mental health difficulties, and struggles with sexual identity are a few of the obstacles that our youth must tackle sometimes alone.

The YHARS team is here to help our youth in their time of need and to work with the youth to overcome their obstacles that stand in their way of a positive lifestyle within their community.

To contact a YHARS support officer call 1800 616 289 or email [email protected]