As part of Homelessness Week 2024, the Valuing Children Initiative (VCI) aimed to bring a much-needed focus to a deeply concerning and often overlooked issue: children experiencing homelessness. To elevate this critical conversation, we hosted a special event that gathered frontline workers, advocates, and those with lived experience to share their insights, challenges, and hopes for the future.
The room was filled with a palpable energy, buzzing with the thoughtful exchanges and mutual support of professionals who spend each day on the frontlines of this crisis. The day was nurtured by Emma Garlett, who guided us through a series of impactful presentations and discussions that left no stone unturned.
We were honored to hear from Glenda Kickett, a respected advocate, along with two courageous young people, Eli and Ethan, who shared their personal experiences with homelessness. Their stories served as a powerful reminder of the urgent need for action.
Throughout the day, we heard from a diverse range of voices. Kate Davis and Sally Green from Centrecare provided valuable insights into the day-to-day realities faced by children and families in crisis. Nghia Luong and Alan Duncan presented the findings from our recently launched Child Poverty Report 2024, highlighting the stark realities of child poverty and housing stress in Australia.
The day also included an interactive workshop led by Jethro Sercombe and Kaci Oliphant, which allowed participants to delve deeper into the systemic barriers that perpetuate child homelessness. The collaborative spirit in the room was inspiring, as participants shared ideas and strategies for creating lasting change.
One of the key takeaways from the day was the importance of amplifying these stories and experiences to those in positions of power. The Valuing Children Initiative is committed to collecting and delivering these stories to decision-makers, with the goal of pushing for legislative change that will bring an end to child poverty in Australia.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to our partners, Shelter WA and Lotterywest, as well as the Bankwest Curtin Economics Centre (BCEC), for their support in making this event possible.
This event was just the beginning. The fight to end child poverty requires ongoing commitment and action from all sectors of society. If you want to learn more, get involved, or share your own experiences, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, we can ensure that no child in Australia has to face the devastating impacts of homelessness and poverty.
For more information or to get involved, please contact Valuing Children Initiative www.endchildpoverty.com.au
Let’s work together to legislate an end to child poverty. #HomelessnessWeek #EndChildPoverty #ValuingChildren
