Overview
Melbourne could soon be getting a brand new event space and cafe that provides support to homeless and disadvantaged youths. Home STREAT Home is the latest project from local social enterprise STREAT, who for the past seven years have offered opportunities and hospitality training to at-risk young people, via employment in their numerous cafes as well as fundraising initiatives such as their annual Melbourne Central Sleepover.
Located on Cromwell Street in Collingwood, Home STREAT Home would feature an artisan bakery, coffee roastery, function space and youth training academy. With construction on the site nearly at an end, the group have launched a crowdfunding campaign via Chuffed, with the hopes of raising $100,000 to help get them over the line.
"'This site will give our young people a 'home away from home'," reads the Home STREAT Home Chuffed page. "For many of the disadvantaged young people we help, this is one of the most important things we can give them, and something they've sadly not had before. A sense of home. Somewhere they are free to be themselves and feel safe. Somewhere to belong."
Donors can pledge a dollar amount, or buy rewards such as fine dining vouchers, free coffee for a month or an invite to the space's opening night party. The campaign has currently received just over $20,000 in donations, with 43 days to go. They've also received the support of celebrated local chef Jacques Reymond, who has given his enthusiastic endorsement, below.
For more information and to donate visit www.chuffed.org/streat.