Youth get a place to call home

Horizon House, built by St John of God Health Care, looks set to open in December and will provide stable accommodation for young people completing education or training.

Horizon House Victoria regional co-ordinator Sally White said it was the first time the model had been brought to Warrnambool, with the project aimed at promoting independence while providing a supportive and supervised environment.

"It is a great program and will give each young person the opportunity to return to school, acquire living and working skills, seek training enabling them to enter the workforce and develop peer and mentor relationships to enhance their sense of being connected," she said.

The house will have four bedrooms as well as a transitional unit for those in the process of gaining skills to move into independent living. It will also feature study areas and a large kitchen, dining and lounge room.

Ms White said homeless people aged from 15-and-a-half to 22 were eligible to become involved and successful candidates would be chosen from all areas of the community.

She said most people entering the program would be aged about 16, with most staying in the house for about two years.

"It is a brilliant program for young people who are too old to be fostered and who don't fit the residential model but are motivated and committed to pursuing their education and training.

''There are structures in place and supportive learning opportunities to ensure great outcomes for these kids who deserve a helping hand," Ms White said.

The house is being built in partnership with Brophy Family and Youth Services and Barwon Youth under the guidance of a local committee.

There are now three Horizon Houses in Victoria, two in Geelong and one in Bendigo