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21-Jul-2026 | Housing & Homelessness

Community partnership providing support for young people

A warm blanket. A meal. Essential toiletries.

For young people accessing The Foundry by SYC, having these everyday essentials available can provide comfort and support when they need it most.

Thanks to the ongoing support of the Lions Club of Australian Hearing Dogs, young people accessing The Foundry have received essential items, including bedding, food and toiletries, this winter.

For the past two years, the club has partnered with The Foundry, SYC’s community youth space supporting young people aged 15 to 25 who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness. Alongside practical support such as meals, showers and laundry facilities, The Foundry helps young people connect with services, develop life skills and build confidence as they work towards their goals.

The Lions Club of Australian Hearing Dogs primarily exists to support Assistance Dog recipients in times of need, while also supporting community projects where possible. Through regular donation drives, the Lions Club has provided food, toiletries and other essential items for young people accessing The Foundry. The club has also introduced The Foundry to the Lions Sleeping Rough Project, helping connect young people with additional supplies and practical support.

Ahead of winter, the Lions Club reached out to The Foundry team to ask what was needed most. Club members came together to collect and purchase the items, creating the largest donation drive they have delivered to The Foundry to date.

For Lions Club member Alix, supporting The Foundry was an easy decision.

“Lions Clubs International has six global causes, with youth being one of our key areas of focus… while we’re often approached for funding, being able to bring our community together to collect items with a clear purpose is incredibly meaningful for our members.”

“When we heard The Foundry needed blankets, food and toiletries for winter, our club got behind the collection straight away. I’m so proud of our Lions community coming together to support young people who need it.”

“I’ve had the privilege of visiting The Foundry and seeing how it operates, and we know these donations are valuable to the young people who access the service.”

The Foundry Team Leader, Lucy, stated that partnerships like this help ensure young people feel supported and welcomed.

“At The Foundry, we have the privilege of walking alongside young people as they navigate some of life’s biggest challenges. While every young person’s journey is different, having access to simple things like a warm blanket, food and essential toiletries can make a real difference.

“The ongoing support from the Lions Club of Australian Hearing Dogs helps us create a safe and welcoming space where young people feel supported, valued and connected. We’re incredibly grateful for their generosity and the care they show for the young people who walk through our doors.”

Community partnerships like this help The Foundry continue providing practical support and connection for young people experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

SYC thanks the Lions Club of Australian Hearing Dogs for its ongoing generosity and commitment to supporting young people in our community.