The Smith Family wants input from the public on how to spend almost $1 million a year to improve the welfare of vulnerable Brimbank children.
The children’s charity has been running a Communities for Children (CFC) program in Brimbank since 2005.
Now about $963,000 a year in federal funding to run 10 local projects for another five years has been renewed, and CFC Brimbank manager Felicity Tregurtha wants to ensure the money is spent wisely.
“Our role is partnering with and co-ordinating the efforts of all the different groups, agencies and schools in the area that interact with children under 12 to make sure the most vulnerable aren’t being left behind.”
More than 40 per cent of Brimbank residents were born in non-English-speaking countries.
And Smith Family statistics show about 30 per cent of children entering primary school in Brimbank in 2014 were developmentally vulnerable or at risk in communication skills and general knowledge.
“We’re keen to hear from other organisations and individuals with an interest in improving these children’s outcomes,” Ms Tregurtha said.
“For example: Are there any gaps in our community’s response that need addressing?’ What can be improved about what we do?”
Deer Park mother of three Zelalem Mikre has been attending the MacKillop Family Services ‘families together playgroup’ in St Albans – one of the CFC projects – since her eldest son was born four years ago.
“The kids make friends and play and learn the language more than they could at home, where we speak Amharic [Ethiopian],” Mrs Mikre said.
“They’re so happy going and so am I as I’ve formed close friendships with other mums and improved my English, too.”
Ms Mikre gave birth to daughter Rihan just a fortnight ago. “I can’t wait to go back and be part of it. I love that the children are learning how to be around others and improving their knowledge of letters and numbers.”
Ms Tregurtha said the CFC was set up to ensure organisations that cared for disadvantaged families were co-ordinated. “The intent is to ensure everyone is pulling in the one direction; that we avoid unnecessary duplication of services and, above all, that vulnerable young children are getting the best chance possible of an excellent start in life,” she said.
To have a say on the CFC in Brimbank, call 9311 0256 or email felicity.tregurtha@thesmithfamily.com.au.
