Our stories

It’s been a difficult year for mum in custody Tara* and her children, who our team in Townville have worked hard with to keep connected.

But when the children’s carer on the outside was also incarcerated, the family was suddenly put in an even more stressful situation.

Tara immediately contacted SHINE for Kids to see if we could help her children, who had been moved to a new home in a different area.

Our team swung into action and, with the support of their school principal, arranged transport for the children from their new home to their old school.

The school and our team knew that during this time of change, having some consistency in their school environment and staying connected with their friends and teachers would go a long way to help them through it.

The children have also joined the SHINE for Kids Rise mentoring program, which means a reliable and trusted adult mentor meets with them weekly to help them further during this time.

Tara has expressed how relieved she is that we have been there for her children while she can’t be.

During sessions, the children can express and process complex feelings in a safe environment. They also learn tools to help regulate emotions and build confidence and resilience.

Tara has expressed how relieved she is that we have been there for her children while she can’t be.

The family has been wrapped in support, including links to food relief, Christmas presents, and other necessary items.

“Mum has told me so many times that we are a blessing,” said our team.

As the children look to another year without their mum at home, they know at least we’ll be there by their side with Rise mentoring and helping make sure that she’s still a part of their lives.

Our team said, “To be able to put support in place for the family and seeing the positive impact it has reminds me of the importance of our work.”

Thank you to The National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA) for supporting this program.