Coast Shelter is set to establish two new 12-month programs focussed on fostering employment readiness, life skills and wellbeing for young people on the Central Coast thanks to $440,000 in funding from the Federal Government.
The charity is committed to supporting young people in the region by providing safe, purpose-built spaces that promote wellbeing, education and personal development.
CEO Lee Shearer said the crucial funding would allow Coast Shelter to expand its services to support those who need it most.
“After more than three decades of serving this community, we know firsthand the challenges our young people face,” she said.
“We must support their futures and provide safe, purpose-built spaces that promote wellbeing, education, and personal development.
“These programs will enhance employment readiness and empower young people to thrive and reach their full potential.
“We’re deeply thankful for this recognition of our work and the ongoing needs of our community.”
Federal Member for Robertson Dr Gordon Reid said Coast Shelter was a phenomenal organisation assisting vulnerable people.
“I welcome the announcement by the Federal Labor Government that it will provide funding to Coast Shelter to support the roll out of new programs for vulnerable young people on the Central Coast,” he said.
“Coast Shelter has a proven track record of delivering outstanding youth services across our region.
“I look forward to these exciting programs commencing and assisting our community.”
The Education Hub, located at Wyong, will offer a learning space focussed on skills development and employment readiness.
Designed to foster resilience and independence, it will allow young people to access: mentoring and coaching to build confidence and career pathways; training programs tailored to job skills; workshops on life skills; financial literacy and employability; and social enterprise opportunities that provide hands-on experience.
The Youth Retreat, located in Gosford, is a youth-centred space, providing a safe, supportive environment for young people in need.
The retreat offers: mental health and wellbeing programs; creative engagement activities (art, music, storytelling); practical life skills workshops; and opportunities for social connection and leadership development.
Minister for Social Services, Amanda Rishworth, said the grant would fund a locally designed and developed solution to best meet the needs of local youth.
“By providing this funding to Coast Shelter, the Australian Government is investing in the futures of the young people of the NSW Central Coast, with an estimated 100 people set to access the Education Hub and Youth Retreat each week, and more than 5,200 people a year,” she said.
“This new hub will help young people develop their skills and employment readiness, improving their future outcomes.
The NSW Central Coast faces significant challenges in supporting young people, including limited access to education and employment, homelessness, domestic violence, and mental health concerns.
The funding is being delivered under the Strong and Resilient Communities – Inclusive Communities (SARC–IC) Activity, which is designed to support people on pathways to self-reliance and empowerment through local community-driven solutions.
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