Everyone in our community deserves to live their life in a way that allows them to achieve their full potential.
However, circumstances can arise that make this difficult if not impossible for many people to achieve.
Each year, Carinity supports hundreds of Queensland families and young people who are experiencing difficulty in their lives.
"We can do this by providing support and guidance to families, adolescents and children during their time of need," Carinity CEO Jon Campbell says.
"This need might arise from domestic and family violence, relationship or financial stress or the many challenges placed on us through this year of a pandemic."
Following a year "no other in recent memory", Carinity has launched its Family Support Appeal.
"This year, the Carinity appeal is aligned with our vision and purpose, to follow the example of Jesus Christ and to reflect God's love to people in need," Jon says.
Carinity services in Beaudesert, Brisbane, Moreton Bay, Yeppoon, Boonah, Toogoolawah and Rockhampton support youth experiencing or at risk of homelessness, people living with disability, and families and young people facing difficulty in their lives.
Carinity Wahroonga in Rockhampton provides psychological therapy to help young people through issues such as anxiety, depression, grief and loss, bullying, self-harm and suicide, and trauma.
"Most of my clients have dual homes or a breakdown of some form within the family unit. Some children come from stable homes, however require support working through the challenges of life," explains a Wahroonga counsellor, who cannot be named for privacy reasons.
"Many of the children have already been exposed to trauma, substance-dependency from a parent, or domestic violence, others are less serious with learning or behavioural difficulties at school."
With mental health issues amongst young people becoming more prevalent throughout society, Carinity Wahroonga cannot keep up with demand for its services.
By expanding Wahroonga's wellness program, Carinity could help more than 100 more young people to thrive and realise their potential and strengths.
"It's also great to see relationships restored and people thriving. I love seeing the children and young people starting to gain confidence and develop their new skills. It's wonderful to hear a child say, 'My sessions are helping me'," the counsellor says.
"I love to see people thrive and realise their full potential and strengths. I am a big believer in hope."
Please donate to the Carinity Family Support Appeal online or by phoning (07) 3550 3737.