Jesse (name changed to protect his identity) is 21 years old and has been living in a Hope Street residential unit for the past three years, after becoming homeless at the age of 16 when his family kicked him out.

"I failed year 11 because I got diagnosed with diabetes that year and before the diagnosis I kept falling asleep in class – I just couldn't keep my eyes open. I ended up in hospital for a month. When I got out I tried my hardest to get back into schooling and to do well, but I ended up failing. My parents, they didn't like that."

Renowned photographer Shannyn Higgins conducted a photo shoot for Hope Street on 17 January. Shannyn visited three Hope Street sites across Melbourne – Brunswick, Thomastown and Melton - and photographed 16 young clients aged 16-24 years old, and two of their newborn babies.

The photos will be used through marketing materials to communicate the work that Hope Street does and the impact the organisation has on young people who are experiencing homelessness.

We are delighted to inform you that the Hope Street First Response Youth Mobile Outreach Service in Melton submission has been approved by The Ian Potter Foundation.

The funding is for a total amount of $1.8 million over 5 years and Hope Street was only one of five organisations funded nationally as part of the foundation’s Major Grants round this year.

Towards the end of last year, several staff members were recognised for their valued service to Hope Street Youth and Family Services.

On Thursday 15 December 2016 Hope Street held its annual Staff Recognition Awards where the following members of our teams were acknowledged for their commitment and professionalism:

This year we commenced Hope Street’s Certificate of Appreciation in acknowledgement and appreciation of individuals who have supported the organisation over a number of years.

There were seven inaugural recipients who each received recognition certificates along with gift vouchers to assist them to relax and unwind at the Peninsula Hot Springs.

Thank you to the following people for their hard work and support to the organisation and our young people: