The amount of support available for young people living in Yarrabilba is growing.
Kids First Yarrabilba is a support program founded two years ago by resident Mischa Rayne.
Ms Rayne started the program to bring back safety houses, and she operates as a dedicates safe house.
Safety House was a nation-wide program where houses and businesses provided a space for children if they felt in danger.
Having been a resident of Yarrabilba for a decade, Ms Rayne said violence was a big problem and some children felt they couldn’t speak to their parents because of issues at home.
Being a child from domestic violence and leaving home at 14, Ms Rayne understands what some children may be going through.
“These kids remind me of me.
“I just want to help them.”
With the recent rise in youth crime in the area, Ms Rayne believes an outlet is needed for children.
She said set programs for the weekend or even an aquatic centre would be beneficial for the area, so children were not roaming the streets.
She is actively working with community stakeholders, including The Buzz, which runs a youth group from 2.30pm-4.30pm every afternoon.
The Buzz centre coordinator Nikki Mussell said between 40 to 60 students walk through the doors on any given afternoon, with up to 80 students on a Friday when there’s a youth barbecue.
The Buzz acts as a youth drop in space where students can make cheese toasties, play basketball outside or play video games in the hall.
“It’s a really fun space for them to come and connect,” Mrs Mussell said.
The Buzz also hosts a pancake breakfast on Thursday mornings with police liaison officers attending.
Mrs Mussell said having organisations that support young people all coming together was a necessity.
Kids First Yarrabilba is registered for Blue Card Services, with Ms Rayne also having her Blue Card.
For more information on Kids First Yarrabilba events you can visit its Facebook page.
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