Youth Homelessness Matters Day 2024: Explore its Important History and Facts

Youth Homelessness Matters Day 2024: The purpose of Youth Homelessness Matters Day, observed this year on April 17th, is to promote public discourse and awareness regarding the plight of homeless youth. The day seeks to develop innovative and sustainable solutions that can assist these individuals in pursuing their aspirations and necessities.

Did you know that on any given night, more than 20,000 young people in Australia (aged 12 to 24) are homeless? From 2019 to 2020, over fifty percent of 18-year-olds who utilized homelessness services had been victims of domestic or family violence. Thus, adolescent homelessness is significant.

Youth Homelessness Matters Day: History

Youth Homelessness Matters Day (Y.H.M.D.) is an annual nationwide initiative that has been conducted since 1990. It is observed on the third Wednesday of April, which falls during Youth Week. Its purpose is to increase community and decision-makers’ awareness regarding the issue of youth homelessness. As a National Juvenile Coalition for Housing initiative, Y.H.M.D. empowers individuals to declare that juvenile homelessness is an issue that merits attention. 28,000 Australians aged 12 to 24 are homeless, representing 24% of the homeless population and 16% of the general population, according to the 2016 Census.

Reportedly, one in every six young individuals has possibly encountered homelessness at some point. The overwhelming majority of youths experiencing homelessness are concealed within shelters, sleeping in vehicles with their families, or couch-surfing. Generally, these young people are homeless as a result of fleeing violence, conflict, or family disintegration. Furthermore, extreme overcrowding constitutes the leading cause of their destitution. Many of these youths develop substance abuse and mental health issues as a result.

The Australian homelessness services system is overburdened and inadequately funded, leading to the denial of applications. Adolescents grappling with substance abuse, mental health disorders, and disruptive behaviors will encounter increased barriers in accessing shelter. These youths require a large number of highly trained personnel available around the clock, but most crisis services lack the financial resources to provide such care at this time. Moreover, homelessness among young people occurs in remote or rural regions of Australia. Furthermore, the absence of shelters, social housing, and support services can exacerbate the devastation.

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Youth Homelessness Matters Day: FAQs

What is the greatest need of destitute youth?

The item most frequently requested in destitute shelters is denim.

Why is homelessness among adolescents a significant problem?

It is less likely that homeless youth will remain enrolled in school, maintain friendships, or obtain employment. In addition, they have an increased likelihood of developing mental health issues, substance misuse, and malnutrition.

How does an individual experience homelessness?

Homeless individuals are frequently susceptible to contracting infectious diseases such as tuberculosis, hepatitis A, B, and C, H.I.V./AIDS, and tuberculosis.

Five Homelessness Facts You Should Know

1. Homeless individuals in Australia exceed 116,000, including juveniles.
2. Unfortunately, over 15,800 minors under the age of 12 lack a permanent residence.
3. Homeless males endure subzero temperatures nearly every night, resulting in an average life expectancy of 45 to 47 years for those who have been homeless for over a decade.
4. An estimated 21% of the homeless population has experienced cold-related ailments, including trench foot, frostbite, or pneumonia.
5. A mere 4% of all dwellings in Australia are classified as social housing, and the inability to afford housing can exacerbate the issue of homelessness.

Youth Homelessness Matters Day: Dates

Year	Date	Day
2022	April 20	Wednesday
2023	April 19	Wednesday
2024	April 17	Wednesday
2025	April 16	Wednesday
2026	April 15	Wednesday

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