Chair David Marshall has met with the Secretary of the NSW Department of Communities and Justice earlier this year to brief him on the success of the Vulnerable Youth Project and Ruby’s homes in South Australia and Canberra.
The Chair also spoke to the now NSW Minister for Homelessness Rose Jackson MLA prior to the NSW election. Ms Jackson was very interested in what Rotary is doing in NSW and how the Ruby’s model could work across the State.
The Chair is seeking a meeting with the Minister to further explore how this program can be integrated into existing programs and the role Rotary can play in supporting this endeavour.
It is understood the Department of Communities and Justice will potentially be undertaking a review of the services currently offered in the youth homelessness space. They will be looking to other service providers to submit details on how they would approach the issues facing NSW in the area of youth homelessness and other services specifically aimed at the youth market. The Vulnerable Youth Project would be part of this process.
This review will unfold over the coming months.
The issue of youth homelessness and youth suicide is a growing problem across the State and Rotary needs to be at the forefront of driving changes in the way this tragic issue is currently being addressed. We cannot allow this situation to continue when our Vulnerable Youth Project has an excellent track record of success of intervention resulting in the reuniting of families in South Australia, and now in Canberra. Our Project can positively change young people’s lives, and in some cases undoubtedly save their lives.
Canberra Vulnerable Youth Program Update
The ACT Government are aware of our desire to establish a second home in the ACT and Service Provider, Conflict Resolution Services, have recommended a review of the impact of the program later this year should demonstrate the need for additional services across the Territory. We are watching this very carefully to ensure the Vulnerable Youth Project will expand to serve families in north Canberra and eventually south Canberra.
I will keep you posted as matters develop. Can I thank you all Clubs for your interest and support, and look forward to promoting the Vulnerable Youth Project across our district and beyond as this year unfolds.
What can your Rotary Club do now
1 NSW Rotary Clubs should speak to your local NSW MP and solicit their support.
2 Please contact Chair David Marshall if you would like to have someone address your Club on this innovative and successful youth program.
0 Comments