Young homeless families are one of the most vulnerable groups in the community. While this group encounters the same difficulties as all homeless individuals, the addition of dependent children presents unique challenges. This research focuses on the young families supported by the Australian “Hope to Home” (H2H) pilot program and reports findings from a qualitative, thematic analysis of 16 one-to-one semi-structured interviews with program participants. The program housed 27 dependent children, highlighting the need for services for young people with dependent children. The findings contribute to the development of community programs specifically designed for families. As evidenced in both design and participant experience, H2H offers a holistic service that integrates financial, housing, education, employment, social, and community supports. Having the lead agency head the lease and brokerage support was beneficial in accessing and maintaining private rentals. Case manager participation in day to day life involved the provision of financial, education, and advocacy support, which increased family stability in multiple areas. By partnering with local businesses and organisations and connecting families to their communities, H2H may also have longer term positive effects on inequality, stigma and discrimination.
Keywords: young families, youth homelessness, community support, discrimination, prevention, case management.
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