The McGowan Government has reached a significant milestone as it expands its flagship Home Stretch WA program, partnering with Yorganop Association Incorporated to extend support to young Aboriginal people preparing to leave care.
Historically, teenagers have transitioned out of care at the age of 18 years – much younger than people outside the care system typically leave home.
The two-year Department of Communities partnership with Yorganop forms part of the expansion of the Home Stretch WA model, which is extending the support available to young people leaving care up to the age of 21.
Yorganup will support young Aboriginal people leaving home in the metropolitan area, providing access to culturally responsive and secure services delivered by an Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation.
Transition coaches will be allocated to young people in the Home Stretch program to provide flexible, one-on-one individualised support focused on coaching a young person towards independence.
Invest in Me Funding will also provide financial assistance to help young people achieve their goals and navigate times of crisis.
As the first commissioned provider of Home Stretch WA, Yorganop will have a critical role in contributing to the scale up and maturing of the Home Stretch WA Model.
The expansion will include financial supports with the Staying on Subsidy and Housing Allowance payments with details currently being finalised for these components.
As stated by Child Protection Minister Simone McGurk:
“The State Government’s partnership with Yoganop is a significant milestone as we continue to expand Home Stretch WA and deliver on this important election commitment.
“Home Stretch provides an important safety net for young people in care. Extending their support network to the age of 21 can completely transform the lives of vulnerable young adults for the better.
“The State Government’s $37.2 million investment in Home Stretch will assist young people to transition to independence, secure a stable home and explore independent living options, while providing carers with vital financial support.
“Yorganop have shown great leadership in the Home Stretch WA trial and the State Government is looking forward to working closely with the team to boost support for at-risk young people.”
