More than 140 vulnerable young Australians have in the last year been gifted much-needed support of resources such as laptops, equipment and driving lessons to support their education or employment pathways.
The gifts – each worth up to $1000 – were made available via the AFG Independence Fund – available to residents of Foyers throughout Australia. Foyers are integrated learning and accommodation settings for young people, typically aged 16-24 years, who are at risk of or experiencing homelessness.
Earlier this year, we committed to providing $600,000 over the next three years to the Foyer Foundation – building on our initial $200,000 sponsorship in 2021 ($800,000 total committed).
The most recent and successful round of the AFG Independence Fund attracted a record 57 applications with each applicant successfully receiving funds as part of the $18,500 available for distribution.
The gifts included 13 laptops/course fees, and 16 driving lesson packages. Other gifts comprised tools, uniforms for work and gym subsidies to support health.
We’re now calling on brokers to consider joining us in donating to the fund.
As you prepare for the holiday season and look forward to a much-deserved break, spare a thought for the young Australians at risk of homelessness. Every night over 27,500 Australian young people aged 12-24 years’ experience homelessness – a figure growing over recent years.
I understand you’ve got a whole host of financial pressures and commitments at this time of year, but if you’re able, your donation will go a long way. When we support Foyer Foundation, we know that our donations go directly to a young person working hard to overcome challenging life experiences and unlock the bright, independent futures they deserve.