Smith’s Floorworld in Ringwood has donated more than $10,000 worth of flooring to PIF House Clayton, a home for at-risk youths in Melbourne’s South-East. The initiative by the Property Industry Foundation, Frasers Property Group and the Lighthouse Foundation will provide life-changing opportunities and therapeutic care for some of Melbourne’s most vulnerable young people.
The initiative has come at an important time, with COVID-19 exacerbating the prevalence of youth homelessness in Australia due to increasing rates of family relationship breakdowns and mental health issues.
“Now more than ever, safe and secure housing is needed for Melbourne’s young and vulnerable population,” states Kate Mills, CEO of the Property Industry Foundation.
“Since the start of the pandemic, family breakdowns have seen children and young adults out on the streets and housing services are struggling to keep up. It is a devasting side to the pandemic that people often don’t see.”
PIF House Clayton relies on the generous contribution of valued companies across the property industry. Businesses such as Smith’s Floorworld have donated materials, time, skills and expertise to the project pro-bono – bringing PIF House Clayton to life.
Coming in at the final stages of the build, Smith’s Floorworld will supply and install the carpet and flooring for the project. As a trusted family business in Ringwood, Smith’s Floorworld prides itself on supporting Australian-made products, suppliers, and the local community.
The company, which this year marked 40 years in business, became involved in the project when approached by long-term client Frasers Property Group.
“As a company, we pride ourselves on supporting charities that align with our values. Donating our time, expertise and products is a valuable way to contribute and give back to such an important cause,” explained Managing Director of Smith’s Floorworld, Ryan Smith.
“It has been such a positive experience working with the Property Industry Foundation and Frasers on this crucial project.”
Ryan was touched to learn about the ongoing impact that the PIF House Program has on the lives of vulnerable young people, with ongoing therapeutic care to be provided by the Lighthouse Foundation after the home is built.
“We are living in such difficult times at the moment. This makes it all the more important for individuals and businesses to come together and donate where they can, so that foundations such as the Property Industry Foundation can continue their incredible work for homeless youth,” Ryan said.
Once completed, PIF House Clayton will house four young people and two live-in carers who will provide ongoing support and help them transition to independent living.
PIF House Clayton is part of the PIF House Program, which seeks to provide a safe home for every young Australian. It is a core belief at PIF that young people are our future workers and leaders and too many are deprived of a safe home life. By supporting the work of PIF, individuals and companies can have a tangible impact on the 44,000 young, homeless Australians going without shelter each night.
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