Horizon House Geraldton celebrates ten year anniversary
St John of God Horizon House Geraldton celebrated ten years of supporting at-risk local youth with a special event at the house.
7 Nov 2016
Past and present residents, staff, stakeholders and local supporters joined together for a BBQ to mark the significant milestone.
Since opening its doors in 2006, Horizon House Geraldton has supported approximately 80 local youth.
As part of St John of God Health Care’s commitment to social outreach, Horizon House provides long-term accommodation and support to young people aged 16-22 who are currently experiencing or at serious risk of homelessness.
WA State Manager for Horizon House Services, Penny Bridges said the program had helped young people to access education, training and employment opportunities, develop essential life skills and identify and work towards achieving personal goals.
“As well as providing a safe place to live, the program offers emotional and psychological support to enhance young people’s resilience in coping with life’s challenges,” Penny said.
Director of Mission St John of God Geraldton Hospital, Alison Dawson said much of the success of Horizon House Geraldton was due to the support and fundraising efforts from the local community.
“Geraldton was the first regional location to have a Horizon House; an important response to increasing youth homelessness in regional areas,” Alison said.
“Our partnerships with community organisations, businesses, governments departments and individual donors have been essential to the development and success of Horizon House, and have enabled us to make a positive difference to the lives of many young people in Geraldton.”