Money for at-risk youth
MORE than $900,000 will go towards an intervention program for at-risk youth in the North if the Coalition is reelected.
Herbert MP Phillip Thompson has promised to fund Queensland Youth Connections’ Get Connected program if the party wins government.
The $904,000 commitment will help establish a community hub, targeting 108 youth between 12-24, provide weekly mentoring, a positive social environment, and training to write resumes and gain employment
“If we can connect with atrisk youth at an early stage and give them a positive influence and education, we’ll have a better chance of them getting jobs and contributing to the community,” Mr Thompson said.
“This project will certainly do that, giving them real-life skills to build a successful future for themselves.”
Queensland Youth Connections managing director Natasha Lane said the organisation operated under the mindset that every young person deserved to have someone believe in them.
“The Get Connected Program is an innovative project that provides a holistic support approach to individuals, families and community,” Ms Lane said
“This will greatly benefit the wider community through providing connections and collaborations with young people and the local business community.
“Queensland Youth Connections is changing the narrative for young people.”
Before the election was called, the federal government provided a $1.4m grant to Queensland Youth Services for Project Overhaul to help prevent recidivist behaviour by engaging youth in hands-on skills development and pathways into the workforce. It also provided $1.4m for a new dropin centre for at-risk youth, and $778,500 for YWAM to help build a multipurpose youth precinct.
The funding for Queensland Youth Connections is expected to build on these commitments.
“We’re already delivering a mechanics, carpentry and oncountry program, as well as a youth hub to get young people off the streets,” Mr Thompson said.