A pilot program for disengaged youth in the Fitzroy Valley has received additional funding, ensuring its operations will continue until the end of the year.
The Marra Worra Worra Aboriginal Corporation launched the Night Space in Fitzroy Crossing in early September, offering a safe haven for children to engage with services aimed at enhancing their social and emotional wellbeing through culturally appropriate, trauma-informed care.
In just the first four weeks, the Night Space engaged with 165 children, resulting in 845 total interactions.
Marra Worra Worra Aboriginal Corporation programs general manager, Nicola Angell, said there is a need for more support and services for young people in the Fitzroy Valley, particularly disengaged and street present young people.
"Marra Worra Worra has responded to this need by partnering with WA Police and local Indigenous-owned organisation Leedal Pty Ltd to create the Night Space and is now receiving additional support with the assistance of the Attorney General," Ms Angell said.
"The program is designed by the community for the community. It is grassroots, culturally appropriate and trauma-informed.
"Participation numbers each night demonstrate that the program is having a positive impact on our youth."
The program's success prompted Western Australian Attorney General, John Quigley, to secure further funding from the Department of Justice following a visit to the Kimberley in July alongside Kimberley MLA Divina D'Anna, Federal Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus and WA Senator and President of the Senate, Sue Lines.
"I visited Fitzroy Crossing in July and saw firsthand the positive work being undertaken by organisations like Marra Worra Worra in helping to engage and support young people in the Town," Mr Quigley said.
"In the first four weeks of the pilot program, 165 children, some as young as six years old, engaged with the service, with 1,250 meals were prepared.
"Reports from local people suggest that Night Space is contributing to a decrease in crime in the area, which ultimately means less young people interacting with the criminal justice system."
Marra Worra Worra initially received a $100,000 grant from WA Police to pilot the program and an additional $87,603 from the Kimberley Development Commission for building renovations.
Leedal Pty Ltd also contributes $1,000 weekly, providing food and groceries from the local IGA for the young people attending the Night Space and participating in the associated Night Patrol program.
With the additional $98,000 in funding, the Night Space will remain open until the end of the year while the government evaluates long-term funding options.
In the meantime, the Department of Justice will continue to strengthen its partnership with Marra Worra Worra.
