Fr Chris Riley SDB, the founder of the not-for-profit organisation Youth Off The Streets has died at the age of 70 following a long period of ill health.
The Salesian priest was appointed as a Member of the Order of Australia in 2006 for service to disadvantaged youth and in 2012, was the New South Wales Australian of the Year.
“The Youth Off The Streets family mourns the loss of our founder, Father Chris Riley,” said Anne Fitzgerald, Chairperson of Youth Off The Streets’ Board.
“He was a tireless advocate for homeless and disadvantaged youth, and he inspired and changed thousands of young lives. Father Riley will be remembered for his compassion, tenacity and unwavering belief that every young person deserves the chance to reach their full potential.”
Christopher Keith Riley was born on 24 November 1954 in Echuca, Victoria, and grew up on a dairy farm. He graduated from a Salesian school in 1973, which inspired him to train as a teacher and youth worker.
He would join the Salesians of Don Bosco and was ordained a priest in 1982.
He established Youth Off The Streets in 1991 with a single food van providing meals to young people experiencing homelessness in Sydney’s inner city. He would serve as its chief executive officer for almost 30 years before stepping down in 2022 due to illness.
In the final years of life, he had been battling ill health and was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in 2019.
He passed away at home on Thursday.
“Father Riley’s dedication to supporting and empowering young Australians in need has left a powerful legacy,” said Judy Barraclough, CEO of Youth Off The Streets.
“His vision, drive and determination will continue to inspire our organisation as we strive to provide growing numbers of disadvantaged children and young people with safety, support and education for a better future.”
Requiescat in Pace