A free after school program for dozens of kids is faces rocky future

A community program that gets dozens of kids off the streets playing sport and providing after school meals is in doubt after funding for the successful project ran out.

Every day up to 60 kids gather across Bentley Park for a free light meal and hours of afterschool activities. Coordinator Gary Addo said recent funding cuts have put the program at risk. Picture: Tim Little.

A community program that gets dozens of kids off the streets playing sport and providing after school meals is in doubt after funding for the successful project ran out.

Six days a week up to 60 kids from around Cairns south gather at Todd Park between 4.30 and 6.30 to meet friends and share food with children from all types of cultures and backgrounds.

An Aurukun game called Edor, which blends the rules of tiggey and bullrush is the most popular game played by the more than 60 children. Picture: Tim Little.

The program which started in April and is delivered through Phoenix Sporting Club was awarded funding through a First Nations Sport and Recreation Program grant that expired in June 30 and has not reopened for new funding.

It is understood that Phoenix Sporting Club has applied for grants under separate schemes which are hoping to provide funding in the coming months.

Coordinator Gary Addo said in the meantime he had been providing food, ice, drinks and support out of his own pocket but there was a limit to what he could do.

“Some of these kids don’t even go home they are so excited they come here straight from school,” he said.

“These areas like Bentley Park and Edmonton are growing big time If kids don’t have somewhere to go they going to do something silly.

“I don’t want to rely on anything I will be her regardless but it we don't care how are they (kids) going to care.”

Each afternoon children from as young as six play various sports including Edor, an Aurukun designed game that blends the rules of tiggey and bullrush before sitting down to enjoy a light meal.

Father of five Tatahirangui Saite said the program was just as much about easing the pressure on parents as it was for children.

Mr Addo said more community programs was needed for the growing suburbs across south Cairns. Picture: Tim Little.

“The kids come down here nearly every day it really gives us a bit of free time, it's great to see them come down and have fun,” he said.

“If we didn’t have something like this they would just be sitting at home bored so if you can, help.”

At this stage, Mr Addo hasn’t been able to secure regular donations from local business.

He was calling on anyone that could lend a hand to come down and help keep the program open so he could continue providing a positive outlet for the kids.

“Sport is such a great outlet to keep kids on track.”

Originally published as A free after school program for dozens of kids is faces rocky future