Couch surfing is usually the start to the slippery slope of youth homelessness, according to the Salvation Army. And this Saturday, Alex Pinch of North Katoomba, will be one of many sleeping on a friend's couch to draw attention to that issue.
The Salvos new fundraising campaign is called The Couch Project and it will specifically raise money to help the Salvos with their youth homelessness work.
"All people need to do is spend one night sleeping on the couch in support of youth homelessness on Saturday September 13 ... and all the money they raise is then given to The Salvation Army's youth services," a spokeswoman said.
Some 255 people were registered as homeless in the Blue Mountains in the 2011 census.
Alex, 17, a student at Katoomba High, said he has witnessed some students become couch surfers during Years 9 and 10 after problems at home. A recent couch surfer had "started with an x-box [and other possessions]... but now he's just got a bag and a pillow".
"They shouldn't have to live on the street, it's a harsh life," he said.
The Salvation Army said on any given night a staggering 44,000 Australians under the age of 24 are homeless.
Major Bruce Harmer from the Salvos says couch surfing "is just one small step from sleeping on the street".
"Just because a young person has a roof over their head does not mean that they have stability, safety or a secure place to live. Obviously if you can't go home, it's not a sleepover. For many young people, sleeping on a friend's couch is just the beginning of an uncertain future which can lead to further disengagement and more serious circumstances."
Major Harmer said "as a community we should rally around these young people and support them through this very difficult period".
"Homelessness is such a big issue. A few dollars helps us buy a hot meal or provide a blanket for a freezing night. A bit more will pay for a safe place to stay."
Fundraisers who raise over $200 will receive a Couch Project onesie - like the red one Alex was photographed in by the Gazette - and socks to wear on the night.
Details: www.thecouchproject.com.au.
The Salvos have been in the Upper Mountains for more than 130 years and Captain Sandra Edge said in recent times they have turned their attention from the "band-aid" approach to the bigger "wholistic picture".
"We don't just want to offer people a food hamper we want to teach them what to do with it".
