By Tate Papworth
Derrimut YMCA Early Learning Centre staff are on a mission to create a community hub for residents to feel safe and learn something new.
In recent months, the centre has become a safe haven for locals facing domestic violence, drug and alcohol abuse and mental health issues where inequality and adversity is widespread.
According to the Index of Relative Disadvantage, Derrimut has the second lowest socio-economic score in Melbourne.
The centre has already offered a number of support sessions to vulnerable community members, but one worker wants to expand the offering further.
Shea Quirk has set her sights on running regular community classes at the centre for locals to learn new skills and experience a sense of belonging.
“The residents of Derrimut are incredibly isolated which can be a contributing factor to many of the issues this community is facing,” she said.
“We have plenty of space to hold activities – we just need volunteers to run them.
“We want to give local residents the opportunity to have fun and learn something new – whether it’s healthy low-cost cooking classes or knitting, painting and yoga, we’d love to hear from anyone in the area who has knowledge and skills they would like to share with the broader community.”
She said it’s an incredibly rewarding opportunity.
“It all comes back to the Y philosophy to provide children with a safe and nurturing space – for children living in domestic violence and not being fed, this can create life-long trauma; it impacts the type of teens and adults they will become,” she said.
“By supporting families in any way we can, we are giving children the best start to life.”
To put forward ideas for classes, or express your interest in being involved, email Shea at: derrimut@ymca.org.au
