The Wodonga Education First Youth (EFY) Foyer has marked its first birthday, celebrating the incredible achievements of the young people who call it home.

Junction Support Services, Beyond Housing, Wodonga TAFE,  and the Brotherhood of St Laurence delivered the Wodonga EFY Foyer, with funding from Homes Victoria.

The EFY Foyer is now home to 40 local young people, aged 16 to 24, who were previously experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

It provides students with safe and secure accommodation and wraparound support to help them stay in education, gain independence and build a better future.

Maddie is one of the students living at the Wodonga EFY Foyer, having moved in during November 2025. She said being there had helped her immensely.

“Living at the EFY Foyer gave me more than just a roof over my head. It gave me a home, which meant I didn’t have to couch surf anymore,” she said.

“It has provided me with stability, genuine support and a safe space to heal and grow. I’ve built meaningful relationships and finally feel like I have somewhere I belong.”

Fellow student Jett was one of the first to move into the Wodonga EFY Foyer in May 2025. He said his year at the EFY Foyer had been transformative.

“Living at the EFY Foyer has strengthened my connections with the people around me, allowing me to build more meaningful and supportive relationships,” he said.

“Through these connections, I’ve been able to grow in many areas of my life, including my confidence, communication skills, and overall sense of wellbeing.”

Junction Support Services CEO Megan Hanley looks forward to an exciting future for the Wodonga Education First Youth Foyer and seeing the students thrive.

“Over the past 12 months, we’ve seen what is possible when young people are given stability, encouragement and the opportunity to stay connected to their education,” Megan says.

“This milestone really reflects the strength of our partnerships, not only with Brotherhood of St Laurence, Wodonga TAFE and Beyond Housing, but also with other local businesses that have supported our Education First Youth Foyer.

“Every contribution that has been made has played an important role in supporting young people to build confidence, stay engaged in learning and move towards their goals.”

“The Education First Youth Foyer model continues to show its value, creating a strong foundation for young people to feel supported and connected.

“Education is a key pillar which young people are able to use to shape a positive future for themselves, we are excited to see the continued successes for young people from the foyer and for the wider community.”

Students, staff and stakeholders came together on Thursday, 14 May, to celebrate the first anniversary with activities and a special birthday cake.

The Brotherhood of St. Laurence Executive Director Travers McLeod says that resolving youth homelessness in Australia requires more than providing housing alone. It requires connecting young people with education, training, employment and their wider community so they can live the lives they aspire to.

“It’s wonderful to see the positive impact the Education First Youth Foyer is already having on young people’s lives in Wodonga,” Travers says.