How we are helping solve youth homelessness

Conrad Gargett was delighted to offer pro-bono architectural services to Property Industry Foundation (PIF) for a new home for Stepping Stone House in Sydney’s inner west, which provides much-needed accommodation and support services for local homeless and at-risk youth.

Working with ADCO, the project involved the refurbishment and extension of a rundown federation house in Dulwich Hill, to create a modern and comfortable home for five young people and one Stepping Stone House youth worker.

“It was so rewarding to work on this project. I believe shelter is a basic human right and our contribution, big or small, can really make a tangible difference to the very serious problem of youth homelessness,” said Conrad Gargett Director and PIF Beneficiary Committee Member, Gillian Donaldson.

“I grew up in a low socio-economic area and had a lot of friends in foster care and government housing. One young person also couch surfed for a while at our place, so I felt close connection this project,” she added.

Environmental and economic sustainability were key factors in the construction and material selections for the project, with all existing brickwork and doors being reused, and many products and services generously donated.

“We didn’t specify products as such, it was more taking a look at what materials could be sourced at minimal cost or for free and working closely with the builders and suppliers on selections, which required a lot of agility,” said Gillian.

The house opened in November 2021, and six months on, has proven to be a great success in providing a comfortable haven for young homeless people.

“Gillian and Conrad Gargett were instrumental to the refurbishment of the second house we have built in Dulwich Hill, Sydney for our Charity Partner, Stepping Stone House,” said Kate Mills, CEO of Property Industry Foundation.

“Haven House Dulwich Hill has now been open for six months, and Gillian’s focus on creating a meaningful place for these five young people who now live there has had a tremendous impact. When young people live in safe housing and have the right support, the benefits are felt like a ripple-effect across society as they find employment, create stable relationships and contribute to their community.”

“It was a truly rewarding experience for us and our partners to help lay the foundation for these young people, and we would like to thank Conrad Gargett for helping make this project possible and being passionate industry partner,” Kate added.

Property Industry Foundation brings together the property and construction industry in a unique collaboration to have a tangible impact on youth homelessness.

Conrad Gargett is proud to be an official PIF Partner. For more information/to donate to PIF, visit: pif.com.au

For more information/to donate to Stepping Stone House, visit: steppingstonehouse.com.au