Each year more than 600 young people seek homelessness help through Veritas House in Bathurst and Orange, the majority, however are in Bathurst.

And this Saturday’s Coffee for a Cause event is aimed at making life a little easier for those in need.

The idea is the brainchild of Ben Middleton who, after watching a documentary on youth homelessness, decided something had to be done.

He researched the subject and came across Veritas House in Bathurst and decided to donate $5000 to assist them with their work.

“Fourty-two per cent of the homeless population is under 25 years of age, most of whom are escaping abusive, violent or broken homes,” Ben said.

“The number of children in out-of-home care has almost doubled in the last 10 years, meaning there is a serious need for foster carers in communities across NSW, including Bathurst.”

Ben’s brother Jesse decided to match that donation, and has ‘paid it forward’ to purchase coffees at the Moubar Vintage coffee van this Saturday.

The idea, the brothers say, is that the community is invited along for a free coffee and in return asked to make a donation to Veritas House.

“Jesse and I are both parents of young children and we are passionate about the safety and wellbeing of local young people,” Ben said.

“Coffee for a Cause is an opportunity to raise funds for a local, community-based organisation and to help make a difference in the lives of Bathurst youth.”

The brothers’ fundraising goal is $10,000, including Ben’s cash donation.

“Planning for the day has also exposed us to some alarming statistics that have reinforced just how important this cause is to both Jesse and I,” Ben said.

Veritas House business development manager Narelle Stocks said the funds will allow the not-for-profit group to continue their work in foster care and youth homelessness services.

“We are humbled that Ben and Jesse have selected Veritas as their cause,” she said.

The Moubar Vintage coffee van is located in the Church Bar car park, off Ribbon Gang Lane, and it will be open from 6.30am until 11.30am on Saturday.