DOWN AT Macksville a group of young people have decided to do what they can for the ‘hidden homeless’ – those who couch surf, sleep in their car or manage a night or two in a refuge.
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Stephanie Scott, Abi Knight, Maddy Scott and Paris Briggs have joined the Salvation Army’s Couch Project, which aims to shine a light on the fact that 42 per cent of the hidden homeless are under 25, which equates to an estimated 44,000 kids without a stable roof over their heads.
Together with their youth group leader Stephanie Kay, the girls and others will be camping out in a paddock under marquees (donated by local business Laser n Lights Party Hire) on Friday, September 16 to raise awareness and funds for the problem.
Fourteen-year-old Paris Briggs told the Guardian the realisation that it was kids her age made her think.
“I can relate to those kids and I know I wouldn’t want that for me … which is why I want to help,” Paris said.
Fellow youth group member, Abi Knight said the Salvos are a good place to go.
“I want these teenagers to know where they can go for help,” Abi said.
Leader Stephanie Kay said she encouraged her group to be involved as a way to be “part of something bigger than themselves”.
“Our kids are pretty comfy – this is a good experience,” Stephanie said.
To make a donation go to www.thecouchproject16.everydayhero.com/au/nrc-raw-youth-crew or via www.salvos.org.au/couchproject (“sponsor a friend” and search for "NRC Raw Youth Crew”).
Money raised will be used by the Salvation Army to buy blankets and food and get kids off the streets and into programs that can help them get their lives on track. The local group is hoping to raise $3000.
