Tasmania’s leading building company Wilson Homes has joined forces with Colony 47 in an innovative partnership to address youth homelessness in Tasmania.
Colony 47's Chief Executive Officer Dianne Underwood said the housing crisis had placed immense pressure on young Tasmanians struggling with homelessness and housing affordability.
"We're delighted to welcome Wilson Homes and NEX Building Group Charitable Foundation as key partners to support our two Hobart youth emergency shelters,” Ms Underwood said.
“Wilson Homes have committed $20,000 annually for three years to provide safety upgrades, maintenance, and household equipment to Mara House and Colville Place, supporting 12 to 20-year-olds experiencing homelessness.”
Wilson Homes Chief Executive Officer Tim Ribbons said their Hobart branch would provide on-the-ground support.
“Our team, with local knowledge and expertise, will be on hand to fix anything building related, replace items and provide at-home safety and comfort to those living within the accommodation services,” Mr Ribbons said.
“It's important these young people know the community cares, and we’re here to jump in and help out.”
The NEX Foundation will also play a crucial role in delivering Colony 47's JumpStart program, contributing $20,000 to enable eight Tasmanians to enter the rental market with the support of a subsidy.
Foundation Director Brett Lavaring said the Foundation was happy to invest in a program to help 18-24-year-olds to live independently while they worked or learned a trade.
“We know that young people are struggling more than ever to find a home and that secure housing is a critical factor in holding down a job,” Mr Lavaring said.
“We've invested in Colony 47's JumpStart program to help more young people towards home ownership and are delighted to provide support to help them into a safe and supportive space.”
The program also teaches young people skills to live independently, such as financial planning and budgeting.
Ms Underwood said rental availability and affordability were major drivers of youth homelessness and innovative solutions were needed to help solve Tasmania’s housing crisis.
“For a small investment of around $50 a week, we can make a significant difference in someone's life trajectory, propelling them towards a brighter future,” she said.
“This collaboration with Wilson Homes exemplifies the power of community, philanthropy, and business partnership and provides a beacon of hope for the future of young Tasmanians.”
