[Melbourne Anglican] At-risk young people are being equipped with valuable life skills to help them transition into independent living thanks to a community initiative at Footscray Anglican parish.
The workshops focus on car maintenance and safety and are run in partnership with Concern Australia, a youth charity that works with disadvantaged young people across Melbourne.
Footscray vicar the Rev. Nigel Pope said the church was excited to use its facilities to give hospitality and welcome to young people. “This initiative is about more than just skills — it’s about fostering belonging, support and a sense of community,” he said.
Young people who participated said the program was fun and they learned a lot. They said they liked that the instructor was non-judgmental toward silly questions.
“They made it fun to learn everything,” one participant said. “It was a great program run by good blokes and I enjoyed it very much,” said another.
Footscray assistant curate the Rev. Kezha Angami said practical skills like car maintenance can make a real difference in people’s lives. “We hope these workshops will not only teach but also build confidence and community,” he said.
Concern Australia chief executive Judith Atkinson said the partnership with Footscray was an exciting extension of the range of workshops and programs they already provide across Melbourne. “It will be a great way to help build positive community connections for young people as they transition to adulthood,” she said.
Funding for the pilot program was provided by Maribyrnong City Council.
Concern Australia grew out of projects initiated by the Rev. John Smith over 40 years ago. It provides a range of services to young people including employment skills, housing and homelessness outreach.