What your gift can do

Sam found connection and hope 

“I was struggling with anxiety, suicidal thoughts, and self-harm. Talking to Kids Helpline felt comfortable because I could get things off my chest that I usually wouldn’t tell anyone – it helps that you can be anonymous.

"After talking to Kids Helpline, I noticed slight changes in myself. Instead of panicking or thinking dark thoughts when I was triggered or uncomfortable, I took deep breaths and closed my eyes to calm down.

"I still struggle most days, but I connect with Kids Helpline to talk. Each conversation makes me feel so much better and that’s why they’re my first choice when I need to talk to someone.”

– Sam*, 11 years old

Michelle felt less alone in supporting her son

“Last night my son who is 13 used Kids Helpline for the first time. He has a few ongoing issues from trauma as well as navigating friendships at school. After a short wait my son was connected to one of the counsellors. After the call my son was so positive, beyond what both of us expected. 

"The counsellor was able to build rapport by talking to my son about books they had in common. They provided my son with empathy and supportive suggestion about how to stay calm, sleep tactics and strategies to work through tricky friendship issues. 

"Thank you for providing this essential service. Our family lives rurally and there are long wait lists to see psychologists or counsellors and limited services, especially those who are trained to work with adolescents. As a mother this session with gave me a sense of relief and made me feel less alone in supporting my son.” 

– Michelle, mother whose son used Kids Helpline

Jarrod felt supported in giving his children the best start to life

“I feel as if a lot of the stuff you have, like even at the GP, they kind of rush you off. But here they're happy to sit down and be like, 'Okay, let’s get into this, what's bothering you. What do you need help with? How are you? How is the baby going? How is your partner? How's home life with the baby?'

"They pay attention. They actually care. They know what my kid did three weeks ago.” 

– Jarrod*, young dad participating in our Young Parents Program

Helen became a positive role model for her daughter

“I have gained so much knowledge and education as to how to raise my daughter and the type of parent that I want to be. I’ve learnt so much about my past relationships, boundaries and keeping myself and my daughter safe. And the type of woman, the type of role model that I want to be for her.”

– Helen*, former resident at San Miguel Family Centre

Caleb found his calling in helping others find their path

Caleb’s journey with yourtown has seen him transform from a young trainee to a confident and capable Leading Hand. His story is a testament to the power of hard work and dedication.

From the moment he picked up his first power tool, Caleb knew he had found his passion. yourtown’s Social Enterprises offered him a hands-on introduction to construction. Caleb says, “Every job is different and requires all different skills. You’re always on your toes.”

After completing his certificate, Caleb continued working with yourtown’s Social Enterprises and moved on to a landscaping apprenticeship. He jumped at the opportunity to contribute to the landscaping of yourtown’s Prize Homes, where he took pride in designing paths and gardens. 

Recently, Caleb’s hard work was recognised when he secured a Leading Hand position. In his new role, Caleb works independently and assists other young people, guiding future trainees towards their own success. His goal is to become a trainer and inspire others who are struggling to find work and build confidence. “I want to help others like me and show that there are opportunities to grow”.

– Caleb, yourtown Social Enterprises