The Queensland Government is providing funding to support Gold Standard Early Intervention in Townsville as part of a commitment to address youth crime.
A $1.8 million investment will be provided to Community Gro, to secure the future of its operations in Garbutt until 2028.
Community Gro provides after hours services to help young people at risk of offending, by providing them with access to education, mental health support and assisting with developing social and life skills.
Queensland Minister for Youth Justice and Victim Support, Laura Gerber, said that the funding was proof of the State Government’s commitment to deliver groundbreaking early intervention programs to divert young people away from a life of crime and to restore safety to communities.
“I’ve seen firsthand the fantastic work Community Gro is doing to help keep the local community safe by running a diversionary service for at-risk young people,” Minister Gerber said.
Member for Townsville, Adam Baillie, said that this funding will help to restore safety to the community and give at risk kids the best change at turning away from crime.
“This investment gives Community Gro the funding certainty they need to support the community into the future and that is great news for Townsville,” Mr Baillie said.
“We made a commitment to the people of Townsville and today we are delivering on that promise.”
Community Gro CEO, Kathrin Meehan, said that the organisation is thrilled to continue delivering services at the Garbutt Youth Hub with the help from the State Government.
“This ongoing funding is crucial in ensuring we can support our young people to make safe choices, build resilience and achieve their life goals,” Ms Meehan said.
“By investing in their futures, we are fostering a stronger, safer and more connected community.”
