Youth Hub to get kids off Townsville streets
A youth hub has been funded by the Federal Government to provide at-risk youth a place to drop in, connect with culture and support services, and stay off the streets.
Community Gro has been awarded $1.49 million under the Safer Communities Program to deliver the hub in Garbutt for at least the next two years, operating five nights a week between 3pm and 10pm.
Federal Herbert MP Phillip Thompson said the service would provide a safe place, a nutritious meal, the chance to build positive relationships and access support.
“By connecting with disengaged youth where they are, and at a time where they’re often out and about, we’ll be encouraging them to get the mentoring and support that will divert them away from criminal activity,” Mr Thompson said.
“The program is multi-layered including working on the goals of the young people and involving their families in supporting them to grow and develop.
“It will provide a holistic approach through providing an avenue for community partners to be involved in supporting our young people, by linking in Community Elders, government bodies and community members in supporting our young people.
“We still need the State Government to step up and meet community expectations when it comes to sentencing and youth justice, but this is one way we at the federal level can try and address some of the underlying issues with disengaged young people.”
Community Gro CEO Kathrin Meehan said the organisation had a track record of delivering successful programs.
“For Community Gro, it means we can offer a better service to our young people, better understand their needs and then create activities that are more likely to reduce anti-social behaviour,” Ms Meehan said.
“Community Gro has provided a safe space for our community for over 40 years and we provide grass roots support to those who need help in our community, this program will continue our great work supporting our community.”
The Youth Hub is in addition to federal funding announced for a program run by Queensland Youth Services and Pitstop Karting, with participants gaining experience as a race team mechanic, skills in carpentry or helping them engage with culture on country.
A youth precinct in the Townsville CBD has also been funded to help get young people off the streets and engaged with support services.
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