Tweed Coast Youth Service closes its doors

THE Tweed Coast Youth Service has issued a heartfelt farewell after announcing its closure after 15 years.

The community-based organisation was founded in 2012 to provide support and services to young people on the Tweed Coast.

Originally named Cabarita Youth Service, the organisation was founded by a group of local volunteers who recognised the need for a dedicated service in the area.

The small grassroots organisation quickly grew into a vital resource for young people in the community, providing a range of services including out-of-school activities, holiday programs, and referrals.

As the organisation grew, it expanded its services to include wellbeing programs, mental health support, and outreach programs.

The TCYS thanked its partners, including The Family Centre, Pottsville Beach Neighbourhood Centre and Murwillumbah Community Centre.

“Thank you to everyone who supported us through grants and financial contributions, including Northern Rivers Community Fund, ITV Tweed Community Initiative Fund, NSW State Government and Tweed Shire Council,” a spokesperson said.

“Special thanks go to the many volunteers who have held this service up for 15 years. Our board members have given countless hours, often at the expense of their own time, to keep the service running.”

“Finally, to the young people and families we have supported, we thank you for trusting us. Your strength and resilience have been at the heart of everything we do.”

The service said there was no public funding for youth services or facilities on the Tweed Coast.

“It’s crazy to think we don’t have the money or value it though. Volunteers can only do this for so long,” the spokesperson said.

“We reached out to the community about needing volunteer board members many times in the last couple of years, with little or no success.

“The hard work and dedication from volunteers in our communities is incredible, and you all should be extremely proud to have been part of this.

“Thank you for every investment of time and effort you have put into the young people of this area.”