The funding of a wellbeing support dog at St Clare’s High School in Taree is among the latest batch of successful projects announced for the Myall Lakes under the NSW Nationals in the state government’s Children and Young People Wellbeing Recovery initiative.
Nationals Member for Myall Lakes, Stephen Bromhead, said the project will help support recovery and boost resilience for young people in the region following the impacts of natural disasters and COVID-19.
“I’m thrilled to announce support for these projects that will help young people in our community bounce back stronger than ever in the wake of COVID-19 disruptions, bushfires, and flooding,” Mr Bromhead said.
“$10,000 is going towards a wellbeing support dog for the entire community at St Clare’s High school to help reduce stress and anxiety. The school’s newest furry friend will be introduced to the school in around six months after completing training and will mark a step forward in innovatively supporting the wellbeing of young people.”
Nationals 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.
Eligible applicants are encouraged to apply for funding for wellbeing programs, events and resources as part of the initiative.
Applications for both large and smaller grants are open now and close on 31 December 2022, or when fully allocated.
For program and eligibility guidelines, visit nsw.gov.au/YouthWellbeing
