North Coast

Photo: Rainbow Frogs meet outdoors

Jump start for Richmond Valley Rainbow Frogs

The not-for-profit Mid Richmond Neighbourhood Centre (MRNC) has won a $23,418 Nationals in NSW Government grant for its Rainbow Frogs LGBTQIA+ social group initiative, Clarence Nationals MP Chris Gulaptis has announced.

“The Rainbow Frogs facilitator and MRNC youth worker will work alongside young people and the community to support emotional safety and safe spaces for young people to connect and share their experiences,” Mr Gulaptis said.“The MRNC is vital Richmond Valley support organisation with a strong history of successful partnerships with government to support community wellbeing.”
MRNC’s Outreach Youth Worker Jess Riky described the grant as “wonderful and exciting news.”

“Thank you. This funding will provide holistic support and access for LGBTQIA+ Youth in our Rural and Remote Communities,” Ms Riky said.

“A core focus is bringing community together, promoting and strengthening diversity, awareness, language, education, culture and safety.”

The grant was awarded from the Children and Young People Wellbeing Recovery Initiative funded by the Nationals in NSW Government’s Office of Regional Youth.

The NSW Nationals Minister for Regional Youth Ben Franklin MLC said the $10 million Children and Young People Wellbeing Recovery Initiative funded projects such as community events, peer support groups, cultural connection or partnership programs, and one-off initiatives like sporting programs and barbecues.

“Our Regional Youth Community Coordinators will help connect young people with the projects that best support their wellbeing and recovery and foster resilience and connection,” Mr Franklin said.

Applications for funding will remain open until 31 December 2022, or when fully allocated.

For more information please visit nsw.gov.au/YouthWellbeing.