A Salvation Army childcare service is helping to provide routine care and support for some of Ballarat's most vulnerable and socially isolated families throughout the coronavirus pandemic.
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The childcare centre has continued to operate throughout COVID-19 lockdown periods, after initially closing for five weeks from March 2020 when the pandemic first hit.
Salvation Army Ballarat homelessness child and youth services team leader Louise Jeffrey said many children attending the centre had experienced homelessness, family violence and trauma.
She said ongoing social interaction for children and support for families through difficult COVID-19 periods made a big difference to their lives.
It is an integral part of our wrap around support model.
- Kellie Brown, Salvation Army Ballarat homelessness manager
"The families are grateful to be able to provide continuity for their children and for the family to have some respite," Ms Jeffrey said.
"The kids love coming here."
The Salvation Army occasional childcare service operates from Tuesday to Friday 9.30am to 1.30pm for pre-school aged children whose families are engaged with support services or agencies.
Staff are highly trained in responding to children who have experienced trauma.
About 10 children attend the childcare centre each day.
Salvation Army Ballarat homelessness manager Kellie Brown said the childcare service helped mothers attend training programs like infant first aid and appointments.
"It is an integral part of our wrap around support model," she said.
The Ballarat centre is one of three Salvation Army childcares in Australia and relies solely on donations from the community through the Red Shield Appeal to operate.
The greater Ballarat region raised $44,250 through the Red Shield Appeal in May and June.
The appeal funding also supports the operation of the LARF mentoring program for young people in Ballarat.
The program matches young people facing economic and social disadvantage with trained young adult volunteers who provide guidance and friendship.
Ms Jeffrey said many of the young people in the program had become more socially isolated and anxious during the pandemic.
She said their connection with mentors played a big role in providing individual support and assisting re-integration into the community when lockdowns lifted, including re-engaging with school.
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Rochelle Kirkham
Rochelle covers court and has a particular interest in social issues including homelessness, food security and family violence.
Rochelle covers court and has a particular interest in social issues including homelessness, food security and family violence.
