By Jessica Anstice
Throughout 2019 Cardinia’s South Sudanese community group organised countless activities to support those in need.
The Cluster, which comprises of community leaders and service providers, was established through Cardinia Shire Council’s South Sudanese Liaison Program.
The program has brought members together to support meal programs, the Cardinia Shire Christmas Hamper program, a community cultural day and an outreach bus initiative to engage with youth in partnership with ADRA and Afri-Aus Care and Victoria Police.
“The committee is a collaborative approach between community leaders, service providers, schools and supported by Cardinia Shire Council,” ADRA Victoria director Rebecca Auriant said.
“Our aim is to prevent anti-social behaviour, improve family connectedness, provide pathways to education and employment, provide opportunities for youth to give back to their local community and promote overall health and well – being for an inclusive society in the Shire of Cardinia.”
The initiative brings together community leaders and service providers such as: MYSS Multicultural Youth Services, HASA (Hope Australia soccer academy), Southern Homeless Youth Assistance Program, Springvale Monash Legal service INC, CMY/CSG, Cardinia Shire Council, Living Learning Pakenham, Konnext Right Now, St Patricks Primary School, Tribes Basketball Club Inc and Afri-Aus Care Inc.
The ADRA Outreach Bus is located at Bourke Park – opposite Pakenham Train Station every Friday during the school holidays from 12pm to 2pm.
