Community Partner Story – The Street University – Ted Noffs Foundation

Since opening in November 2023, The Street University in Townsville has provided a safe, supportive space for more than 1,000 young people under the age of 25. Operated by the Ted Noffs Foundation and funded by Youth Justice, the service supports a wide range of young people. All are welcome, from those involved in the justice and child safety systems to those experiencing mental health challenges, homelessness, or social isolation. The Street University Coordinator, Scotty shared, “to see these kids come into the space and know that it’s somewhere safe where they can get a feed, use a computer, they can have a chat with a counselor or just kick back and feel completely safe and not have to worry about anything. It’s something special.” 

Food plays a central role in the support provided at The Street University. The on-site kitchen is open daily, with freshly cooked meals available for young people to eat on-site or take home to their families. The service also distributes food hampers to young people in need, including young parents and larger family groups living under the same roof. 

Initially operating with a $250 grocery budget, staff quickly found the demand far exceeded what they could supply. With support from Foodbank Queensland, the program was able to expand its food offerings. The donated food is used for daily meals, cooking workshops, and emergency hampers. “It was great to have Foodbank jump on board and give us the donation to use on more food,” Scotty said. 

Inside, the space is a hub of activity and connection. A basketball court, stage, gaming and music rooms, counsellors’ offices and more. At the heart is the kitchen, led by the beloved Simone. The fridge and freezer are always stocked with pre-made meals, available for young people to enjoy anytime. Scotty shared that, “food is such a massive drawcard for these kids. They all love food.” 

Cooking also provides an informal setting for young people to discuss their challenges and access additional support services, such as counselling or case management. The kids come over and ask Simone what she is cooking. She extends an invitation to lend a hand. “Not one of them has said no,” says Scotty. “It also opens up a line of communication for these young people to be a little bit vulnerable and let us know what’s going on in their life, which helps us then bring the counsellor down.” 

One recent workshop saw 26 young people participate in baking apple pies. Weekly activities also include a Friday night basketball program followed by a barbecue, often cooking over 70 sausages for attendees. 

Food hampers have become an essential part of how The Street University supports young people and their families. The team is able to prepare and deliver hampers filled with nutritious pantry-staple items and fresh produce. The impact of those food hampers runs deep. Scotty shared the story of a young couple, “they are 17 and 18 who have a six-week-old baby. We have given hampers to them over the past couple of weeks, which has helped them tremendously.” 

Another family of six siblings regularly visits the centre. With close relationships with their extended family, The Street University will drop off food hampers. Scotty explained, “when we’re going there and we’re dropping off these big food hampers for them, just the smiles and the thank you – it almost brings a tear to your eye knowing how much they actually appreciate it.” 

With around 70% of participants identifying as Indigenous Australian, the space is grounded in cultural connection too, with local Elders regularly engaging with young people. 

“Having organisations like Foodbank Queensland come to Townsville is needed more and more. It will definitely help the community knowing that there are organisations out there that want to help.” 

The service continues to adapt to the needs of the young people who use it, regularly updating its workshops and group sessions based on their feedback. Through consistent access to food, meaningful engagement, and trusted support, The Street University is helping young people across Townsville build stability and confidence. 

If you are in a position to help Foodbank Queensland provide more food across the state to support Queenslanders in need, please consider joining the fight against hunger as a regular giver.