Youturn has unveiled upgraded amenities at Youturn Youth Support centre in Tewantin, which will provide tangible benefits to the local community who are at risk, vulnerable or homeless.
The new facilities have been created as part of the Queensland State Government’s Unite and Recover Stimulus Package in association with Noosa Council.
CEO of Youturn Youth Support Andrew Anderson said, “For most people a morning shower is something you take for granted, but for someone living on the street or in a car, a simple warm shower and a place to wash their clothes can give them a little dignity and mean the world.”
“We are grateful to Noosa Council and the Queensland State Government for much-needed funds, which has fast tracked a number of critical infrastructure projects, such as the Youturn laundry facilities for those who are doing it tough and sleeping rough.”
The upgrades to Youturn’s Shower, Laundry and Toilet Facilities are now complete and offers a more functional layout with new tiles, fresh paint reflecting our Youturn branding, benches, sinks and mirrors among other fixtures and fittings.
Equipped with two washers, two dryers, three showers and three toilets, including disabled amenities, the upgraded facilities will be a welcome addition to the Emergency Relief services and support that Youturn offers.
Noosa Mayor Clare Stewart said Youturn’s upgraded Community Space would help meet an important need in the local community.
“The refurbished facilities will cater for increased demand and ensure those doing it tough in Noosa always have somewhere to turn for a hot shower, a place to wash their clothes and a healthy meal while they wait,” Cr Stewart said.
“Council is really pleased to support this project as part of a package of works we’re delivering with Unite and Recover funding from the State Government.”
“In addition to our new bathroom and laundry amenities, we are also pleased to unveil a new kitchenette and decking / seating area for those accessing emergency relief. These upgrades have been made possible by the generous support of local businesses including Unity Water, Commonwealth Bank Tewantin, TURSA Employment and Training and Bunnings Noosaville,” Mr Anderson said.
The number of Australians aged 18 to 24 who experienced higher levels of housing stress increased threefold between April and May 2020, from 10.3% to 27.5% according to the Australian National University, COVID Data.
“These are sobering statistics, and more so during this time of COVID, when many in our community have lost their jobs and fallen on hard times,” Mr Anderson said.
