Many youths are suffering from homelessness – they need our help. Of course for most being homeless is not of their own choice. The few who 'choose' homelessness did so because the streets looked greener than the conditions at home. Youth homelessness is a societal ill with far-reaching consequences that could affect the peace, security, and wellbeing of other members of the society.

Statistics show that about 100,000 Australians are homeless on any given night and more than one third of them are teenagers and young adults. In simpler terms, at least 36.000 Australian youths will sleep out on the street on any given night. Sadly, the government is ill equipped and mostly overwhelmed with solving youth homelessness. Everybody must play a part in reducing the number of homeless young people on our streets.

Education can make a difference

Education is a valuable tool that can ensure that homelessness doesn’t become an endemic generational problem. Philanthropists such as Bruce Fink are supporting the work of non-profits that are helping homeless young people.

Everyday, people can play a part in getting young people off the streets and into the classroom. Education is simply the process of imparting or acquiring knowledge as part of efforts to prepare oneself to be a productive member of society. Youth homelessness however makes it practically impossible for disadvantaged young people to pursue an education in the traditional formal settings of a classroom. Even the simple act of showing up in school/class might be hard on a homeless young person who can't access a bathroom let alone afford a school uniform.

There is simply no better way to get people off the streets than to assist them in getting an education. An education equips them with skills – skills that can help them get jobs – jobs that can teach them responsibility and help them earn an income.

Businesses need to invest more in eradicating youth homelessness

A common thread in the story of successful folks who were once homeless is that they found a support system that provided them with a sure footing to pursue their dreams. Solving the problem of youth homelessness goes beyond providing a roof over the heads of young homeless people.

The Salvation Army's Oasis, with support from entrepreneurs such as Bruce Fink, is doing a great job in offering young homeless folks a chance at education. Many socially disadvantaged young folks find it hard to re-engage in traditional learning environments because of homelessness, mental health issues, and lack of funding among other things.