Break down barriers to education for young people like Chase

“Without the support of Youth Off The Streets, I know I would have dropped out of school, on the road to nowhere. I feel so much more confident now and I’m determined to succeed.” – Chase, 17

 Chase was raised by a single mum with debilitating health issues. From a young age, he took on the role of carer. He would cook, clean and take care of his two younger brothers in a tiny two-bedroom home.

 “Sometimes I couldn’t hear myself think. Doing homework was impossible, especially with my brothers in the same bedroom. I had no privacy, ever.

“On the days Mum was bedridden, it was up to me to go to the shops, buy food and cook dinner. I was exhausted from school. Maths homework seems so trivial when you’re trying to get by every day.”

Chase hid everything from his schoolmates. No one knew how hungry or tired he was. They didn’t know about his responsibilities at home or how anxious he felt being among students who seemed to have it all.

Instead, he became angry. He stopped going to school and was ultimately expelled.

Thankfully Chase heard about EDEN College – one of Youth Off The Streets’ six accredited independent high schools. 

With small classes, a flexible curriculum and a dedicated team of teachers, youth workers and psychologists, our schools are well-placed to help students with complex individual needs. Many are dealing with homelessness, family violence, poverty and/or mental health issues – all barriers to completing their schooling.

 Your gift today will help to give them the extra support they need to stay at school, and to reach their employment and education goals. Thank you!