On Thursday 06 October 2022, Hope Street’s CEO, Donna Bennett, was thrilled to host a visit from HWL Ebsworth Lawyers with Partner, Leighton Moon, and legal professionals, Jane Ku and Thomas Appleby, with a tour of our leading designed youth refuge in Melton.

HWL Ebsworth Lawyers, a valued partner, provided legal representation through all stages of the First Response Youth Service in Melton project, an innovative new model designed to respond to youth homelessness through a place-based approach in the north-western growth corridor of Melbourne.  The team at HWL Ebsworth Lawyers protected Hope Street and project partners contributing to the successful delivery of the project.

Today being World Homeless Day is an opportunity to reflect, encourage and acknowledge the importance of contributions from all areas of the community such as that made by HWL Ebsworth Lawyers, in working together to make a meaningful difference to the lives of highly-disadvantaged members of society.    

For the first time since the supported crisis accommodation centre was opened in August 2020, Leighton, Jane and Thomas were able to see the First Response Youth Service in action.  They enjoyed a tour highlighting the integration of trauma-informed practice and the design of the leading purpose-built centre.

“Leighton, Jane and Thomas had the privilege of sharing afternoon tea and conversation with some of the young people residing in our refuge.  Chatting with our staff gave them a brief insight into the day-to-day operations of the centre, the needs of young people and their children, and the positive changes observed in their health and wellbeing as they settle into the safe and comforting youth-focused space of the centre.  They were impressed with our team of specialist staff assisting young people with stabilisation and preparing for the next stage of interdependent living.” -- Donna Bennett, Chief Executive Officer

Photography Credit: Hope Street Youth and Famiily Services