Supporting children, young people in care

CAFS has launched its End of Financial Year appeal to support children and carers.

The child and family service organisation uses every dollar raised through the appeal to provide assistance in the Ballarat and Central Highlands regions.

CEO Wendy Sturgess said the focus is on helping children and young people in care and ensuring their carers receive the guidance and resources they need.

“At the heart of this appeal are local children and young people who need safety, stability, and the chance to thrive,” Sturgess said.

“Government funding supports many essential services, but important gaps remain, particularly in the extras that can make a real difference to a child’s wellbeing, confidence, and sense of belonging.”

Funds raised through the appeal will provide items and opportunities falling outside formal funding, including clothing, essential items, and participation in everyday experiences.

Sturgess said that as cost-of-living pressures increase, community support plays an important role in ensuring both children and carers are well supported.

“This is about community coming together in a very real and local way,” Sturgess said.

“Together, we can be the difference in a child’s life, right here in our own region.”

Cafs’ foster and kinship carers will gain support from the appeal with training to ensure they feel confident and equipped to provide safe, nurturing homes.

“Behind every child in care is a carer walking alongside them,” Sturgess said.

“When we support carers, we strengthen the care and stability that children receive every day.”

Cafs has delivered foster care, family support, and therapeutic services for more than 160 years, and has bases in Ballarat, Bacchus Marsh, Ararat and Daylesford.

To learn more or donate, visit cafs.org.au/give-gift-grow/donate