Open Family street worker, Les Twentyman said, "The Back to School program was founded in 1989, as youth workers in the Western suburbs were continually finding young people not at home, school or work who expressed a willingness to stay at, or return to school to further their education."

"The Back to School program provides textbooks, calculators and stationery to homeless young people who are facing social and financial difficulties in completing their schooling. The young people are referred to us by Welfare Coordinators at schools who have assessed the young person" Les said.

"Throughout 30 years as a youth worker and teacher I have noticed the direct correlation between school absenteeism and drug use. Poverty is one of the greatest reasons for absenteeism in schools, which results in many crimes being committed during school hours. It is crucial that all children are given the opportunity and access to our education system to avoid this situation occurring" Les said.

Open Family Chief Executive, Nathan Stirling said, "The education of our youth is fundamental to the prosperity of our nation. The Back to School program enables young people to continue studying if they cannot afford the costs involved. We have had many young people continue their studies at universities and TAFE colleges due to the assistance they received from the Back to School program."

Mark recently accompanied Les Twentyman on a visit of Melbourne's streets and met some of the street children that Open Family assists.

Mark Philippoussis has been an ambassador for Open Family since 1999 and has featured in a television commercial highlighting the plight of street children.