Connecting Home

Youth Homelessness

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Connecting Home

What is Connecting Home

Connecting Home provides support to young people (16–24 years) who are homeless or at risk of homelessness in the Tweed, Byron and Ballina Shires.

Who is it for?

Young people aged 16–24 who are homeless or at risk of homelessness, and their families in the Tweed, Byron and Ballina Shires. There is no cost for this service.

How do we support young people?

We work with young people, their families and our community partners to address the causes of youth homelessness.
We respond early to young people at risk to prevent homelessness.
We work closely with young people to assist them to identify their needs and achieve their accommodation and personal goals .
Connecting Home explores solutions with young people to:

  • Maintain their current accommodation
  • Access transitional and medium-term accommodation
  • Access and maintain long-term housing in the public and private rental markets.

When and Where?

Enquiries can be made at any of The Family Centre Offices:
Monday to Thursday 9am–4.30pm
Friday 9am–4pm
Phone 1800 211 154

Tweed Heads South Office:
Unit 1/14 Amber Rd, Tweed Heads South, NSW 2486

Phone: 1800 211 154

Tweed Heads Office:
15–17 Frances St Tweed Heads NSW 2485

Phone: 1800 211 154

Ballina Office:
Kentwell Community Centre
20 Bangalow Rd
Ballina, NSW 2478

Phone: 1800 211 154

Murwillumbah Community Centre
Nullum St, Murwillumbah NSW 2484

By Appointment Only

Phone: 1800 211 154

Tara's Story... 

Tara connected with The Family Centre after being referred by Byron Community Mental Health for housing support. She was struggling with debilitating anxiety and depression. 

After leaving the health care setting, Tara was supported by the Connecting Home team to move into The Family Centre’s living and life skills housing program. This is an intensive 12 month transitional housing program, designed to equip homeless young people with the knowledge and skills they need to live independently. During this time Tara:

  • Maintained mental health support 
  • Commenced university studies 
  • Secured employment 
  • Obtained a motorbike license and saved for the purchase of motorbike 
  • Completed TFCs Living and Life skills program and was approved for the Rent Choice program

 

Tara’s mental health significantly improved. She focused on healthy lifestyle choices, built positive relationships and her confidence grew. Tara secured a rental property with Rent Choice Youth Program and has secure part-time employment.  She is also volunteering for a national not for profit organisation, and plays an important advocacy role.

Tara is making a positive contribution to her community and her future looks bright.

The Connecting Home program is delivered in collaboration with
Social Futures.