Murray Bridge, South Australia (August 12th, 2021) – With great excitement, we announce the opening of Studio Purpose a shelter solution for homeless youth. Habitat for Humanity South Australia was committed to supporting the 1 in 9 homeless youth access safe accommodation in Murray Bridge through the Studio Purpose project. Studio Purpose will provide safe accommodation in combination with support services. We thank all the broader community and partners who came together to make Studio Purpose a reality. Habitat for Humanity Australis feels privileged to be a part of this great project and to have worked with amazing partners Ac.care, Anglicare SA, Headspace, Rural City of Murray Bridge, and SA Housing Authority. Habitat for Humanity’s role has been to refurbish and renovate the units and help create a space for young people to live in stability and safety.
Today was the day the doors opened and the Studio Purpose partnership project progresses. Two South Australian Housing Authority units have been converted into four welcoming places for youths at risk of homelessness to live.
Studio Purpose is addressing the lack of safe accommodation for young people at risk of homelessness in the Murray Bridge region. Studio Purpose consist of four self-contained, fully furnished units for short-term rent by youth aged 15 to 21. But it’s about much more than a warm bed and welcoming space. Studio Purpose will also work with youth to provide the practical support required for success focusing on their health and wellbeing, access to education and training, their connection with their local community and their longer-term sustainable housing options.
A highlight of today’s special event was a Ngarrindjeri smoke cleansing ceremony to prepare the home units for the arrival of the first tenants. With the support of the community, donors, partners and volunteers the vision of Studio Purpose was made a reality today. Studio Purpose will give vulnerable young people the best chance to improve their lives by providing safe accommodation in combination with key support services. A key focus of Studio Purpose will be working with the young tenants to develop their ‘next steps’ in housing. If possible, reconnect them and reunify them with their families; But if this is not possible, help them to live independently in private rental, community or public housing.
It has been a privilege for Habitat got Humanity Australia to be a part of this project and be able to build a safe space for young people to call home. Studio Purpose will give young homeless youth the hand up they need to build a life where they have the strength, stability and self-reliance to create a better future.
