A BIG BOOST FOR OUR LOCAL YOUTH

The Coffs Coast is continuing to beneft from the NSW Government’s Children and Young People Wellbeing Recovery initiative, said Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh.

Mr Singh said successful projects are helping support recovery and boost resilience for young people in our region following the impacts of natural disasters and COVID-19.

“I’m extremely pleased $50,000 has been allocated to Coffs Coast Autism, which will deliver a range of creative workshops through its

Spectrum Spectacular Creative Film Making & Mentoring,” Mr Singh said.

“I’m thrilled to announce support for this project which will help young people in our community bounce back stronger than ever in the wake of COVID-19 disruptions and natural disasters. “Young people living with autism found the disruptions to routine and school particularly tough, so these workshops will help them reconnect with their peers and passions. “The Spectrum Spectacular Workshops and Mentoring is a great example of how we can help young people recover, build resilience and improve wellbeing by providing them with the tools and resources they need.” Minister for Regional Youth Ben Franklin said the $10.3 million Children and Young People Wellbeing Recovery Initiative offers large grants between $10,000 and $50,000 and small grants for up to $10,000.

“The large grants fund projects such as community events, peer support groups, cultural connection or partnership programs, while small grants are to enable initiatives like sporting programs and barbecues,” Mr Franklin said.

“Our Regional Youth Community Coordinators will help connect young people with the projects that best support their wellbeing and recovery and foster resilience and connection.”

The Children and Young People Wellbeing Recovery Initiative is funded through the NSW COVID-19 Economic Recovery Initiative and the co-funded NSW and Australian Governments’ Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.