Mildura’s capacity to house at-risk young people leaving State care has been quadruped following Mallee Accommodation and Support Program (MASP) completing the build of three new CBD units.
MASP received funding in October 2022 under Homes Victoria’s Youth Housing Capital Grant Program to build these three one bedroom units targeted at young people leaving care environments, allowing them an independent living space as they find their feet to then transition into their own housing.
MASP Acting CEO Charmaine Calis said the organisation recognised a gap in this service delivery for young people, with there previously being only one dedicated leaving care unit in the area.
“We know that without a stable place to live it can become incredibly difficult for anyone to be able to live a safe and productive life,” Mrs Calis said.
“Housing stress is widespread in our community, and young people are particularly vulnerable to experiencing homelessness upon leaving care.”
The Commission for Children and Young People’s Keep Caring Report 2020 found at least 30% of young people become homeless within three years of leaving care.
“This is a disturbing statistic and one we want to see changed,” Mrs Calis said.
“Providing stable housing for our young people is a step towards that. On behalf of MASP and its board of directors I would like to thank the Victorian Government for funding this vital project as well as all the contractors for their work bringing it to fruition.”
