AU – Youth Homelessness Awareness Day, Sydney

On 15th April RRT attended an event at Granville Youth and Community Recreation Centre in Parramatta in Sydney. Held during Youth Week, this event was the opening of newly refurbished basketball courts for community use. The purpose of the event was to highlight that youth homelessness is a far greater issue than most in the community would be aware of: On any given night, around Australia, 44,100 young people under the age of 25 don’t have a place to call home.

People gather at the basketball courts opening day – a day which was used to raise awareness of youth homelessness.

Various groups attended during the day including Parramatta Mission, Anglicare and the NSW Police (who are great basketball players!). Additionally the Lord Mayor of Parramatta gave an inspiring speech as to the situation for youth and the need to assist those we can. A number of well-known community members gave up time to attend and encourage the youth.  Notable sporting figures were there and visitors were also treated to a motivational speech by a world champion boxer about the need to overcome circumstances and achieve.

All ages had a chance to try out the new courts.

The Sydney Kings Basketball team attended and gave a vigorous training session. After polishing up on skills and drills, this part of the day culminated in a game of basketballs – teams being formed partly by Kings and partly by potential King players.

Sydney Kings gave a training session to young people who attended RRT served 400 meals over the course of the day.

A team of 19 RRT personnel also were included in the event – cooking and serving 400 meals at lunch, along with drinks throughout the day. The meal of sausages, coleslaw and bread rolls was very much appreciated by the community and the RRT look forward to helping again in the future, as the work continues to improve the lives of young people who are without a home.

Some of the RRT who attended the event.