The Bligh Government has committed almost $688,000 over the next three years to help abused and neglected children and young people in the Mount Isa area.
State Member for Mount Isa Betty Kiernan said Child Safety Minister Phil Reeves had confirmed three-year funding packages to Centacare Mount Isa and Yuenmanda Aboriginal Corporation to counsel children and families.
Centacare will receive up to almost $445,000 and Yuenmanda, up to almost $243,000.
“Children and young people in care have often suffered severe abuse or neglect,” Ms Kiernan said.
“This can leave them with emotional scars and behavioural issues that counselling can help them work through.
“The support and counselling they receive from organisations like Centacare and Yuenmanda helps these young people begin to rebuild their lives, and possibly even return home to their own families if it’s safe.
“Based on these organisations’ records over the past three years, the government will continue to fund and work with these organisations to provide safe and supportive places for these vulnerable children and young people.”
Mr Reeves said it was a sad fact that as at 31 December 2008, more than 90 children and young people in the Mount Isa area could not live safely at home because one or both of their parents abused or neglected them.
"Thanks to our community partners such as Centacare Mount Isa and Yuenmanda Aboriginal Corporation, children and young people who have been abused or neglected are receiving the support they need, have a safe place to stay and a much brighter future.
"Protecting our children is an enormous responsibility. That’s why we are investing a record $638 million investment in child protection in 2009-10.”
“Despite the global financial crisis, the Bligh Government is committed to maintaining our essential child protection services.”
Media contact: Minister's office 3235 9236
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