LATROBE Valley support service providers checked out Quantum Support Services’ youth residential building during an open day in Morwell last week.
Client services manager Tanya Nolan said while the open day was held so organisations who had existing relationships with the provider could inspect the facilities first hand and gave other organisations an understanding of what services the centre provided.
“It’s also for any others that might be curious in case they come across people who could use this facility,” Ms Nolan said.
“People can’t use our services if they don’t know that we’re there.”
The youth residential building provides six-week crisis accommodation for eight 16 to 19 year olds in individual units and also provides life skills programs.
Youth Services coordinator Kurt Loeckenhoff said some of the programs included an arts and craft program, sewing sessions and a new refuge garden project.
“The raised garden beds were established five months ago and the ones at the back have been in about six or eight weeks and we have plans for hot houses and a garden shed,” he said.
Ms Nolan said the aim of programs, such as ‘rock and water’, which was demonstrated on the day, was to teach the young people life skills they could take into the real world.
About 100 people attended the open day and Mr Loeckenhoff said the centre planned to hold the open day bi-annually.
At the open day there were photographs on display, a music performance and the unveiling of a mosaic made by local artist Michelle Murden.
Youth residential worker Bryce Wright said the 24-hour service could accommodate young mothers, siblings and couples, if it was appropriate, and all youths were referred to the centre by organisations including police, Anglicare, youth justice and Community Housing Limited.
For more information on Quantum Support Services phone 5133 7723.
