Children from vulnerable backgrounds or whose parents work as frontline workers are the focus of a pilot program aimed at providing better access to quality vacation care.
Grants of up to $30,000 will assist services to provide engaging opportunities like sports and nutrition programs, excursions, cooking and art workshops.
Nationals Member for Myall Lakes, Stephen Bromhead said vacation care services play a vital role in meeting the needs of our community.
“Students have worked so hard over the last term, and they deserve to have fun and entertaining programs during their holiday break,” Mr Bromhead said.
“I am so pleased to know seven services in the Myall Lakes will benefit from these vacation grants.”
The NSW Nationals in the state government’s Vacation Care Grants have been awarded to the following services:
• Snugglepot Day Care Centre has received $30,000
• Active OOSH Old Bar has received $10,000
• Active OOSH Pacific Palms has received $10,000
• Active OOSH Forster has received $10,000
• Active OOSH Taree West has received $10,000
• Active OOSH Wingham has received $10,000
Nationals Minister for Education Sarah Mitchell said the funding will allow services to provide experiences for students through incursions and excursions, as well as upgrades to equipment, resources and transport.
“This service is crucial for parents and carers who may not be able to get time off work to look after their children during school holidays,” Ms Mitchell said.
“We want children to be excited to walk through the doors of their vacation care and look forward to spending time there. I’ve seen some of the great programs available, like inviting local sports stars to talk and workshops with writers to inspire students. This will provide enriching opportunities for students in vacation care.”
