At the funding announcement at Forbes High were (L-R) Nationals MP Sam Farraway, Emily Gartner, Rachel Todd, President of the P&C Federation Nat Walker, Forbes High Principal Kathleen Maksymczuk, Forbes Mayor Phyllis Miller and Benjamin Barnard.
Forbes High School received more than $7,000 in the latest round of the NSW Government’s Children and Young People Wellbeing initiative following a spike in suicides across the Orange Electorate.
The funding will support the school’s Community Day, an event that brings local schools together for students to share experiences and provide each other with advice.
President of Forbes High School P&C Natalie Walker welcomed the announcement saying the investment would support the continued collaboration between the school and the P&C to support the wellbeing of children and families.
“With this funding, our school community will be able to open our doors to not only our families and students, but the Forbes community, by providing an event that showcases our school and creating an environment that is fun, engaging and community building, especially after the last few years” she said.
“I am grateful for the NSW Government’s investment in supporting our children and young people, through initiatives like the Children and Young People Wellbeing Recovery Initiative.”
NSW Nationals Upper House MP Sam Farraway said: “I’m thrilled our government is backing local groups to put together events and projects that will help young people in our community bounce back stronger.
“Projects like the Community Day is a great example of how we can improve young people’s adaptability to the challenges they face.
“By coming together, students can talk, listen and learn from each other and break down the stigma of mental health.
“I am hoping that this funding helps our students across Forbes gain access to resources, increase their social circles and make friends for life.”
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 31st December, or when fully allocated.
For program and eligibility guidelines, visit nsw.gov.au/YouthWellbeing.
By Maggi Barnard