Youth services optimistic about Katherine's kids during closures

Kalano Community Association, the STAR Foundation and Katherine's YMCA are all undertaking operations despite the limitations imposed upon them by the coronavirus pandemic.

YMCA Director Darren Phillipson said that providers are being forced to innovate but the services will be better for it in the long run.

"Even though we can't be there in person, our team is finding ways to stay connected over Facebook and email, and by reaching out to those kids that have been through our leadership program," Mr Phillipson said.

"We're working a Facebook group called K-Town Y Youth alongside other organisations to facilitate that ongoing connection, and we've been putting together activity boxes to keep the kids occupied.

"Thinking outside the box has opened our minds and we've compiled a stack of programs for the future - it's really good to see the passion within all service providers sharing ideas and support for one another so the future is looking bright for the youth of Katherine," he said.

Meanwhile, STARS Foundation CEO and Founder Andrea Goddard said her organisation is ready to deliver services remotely should schools be closed for face-to-face learning, and will begin remote delivery services at the beginning of Term Two.

The service has stated it will be personally monitoring and providing support to young girls unable to attend school with both academic aid and wellbeing support programs such as yoga and meditation.

"The strength of these relationships is what now places us in the best possible position to provide meaningful support to First Nations girls and young women in our programs during these uncertain times," Ms Goddard said.

"It is clear from our discussions with school leaders that the support Stars can provide in communicating, connecting and engaging with girls and their families is more important than ever.

"We've got an incredible team in place and Stars is ready to do whatever it takes to support our girls and young women and their schools during these very challenging times," she said.

Facilities closures have fueled concerns the town could see increased negative behaviour among Katherine's youth.

Kalano Community Association CEO Bill Headley said his Outreach team haven't seen any such change.

"All of our services are still running - the Katherine Youth Outreach Service is still operating transport to bring children from the streets to wherever they nominate as a safe place," Mr Headley said.

"Our diversionary program for kids who may otherwise be in Don Dale or a similar facility is experiencing some limitations, but we still have kids out helping elderly people with their gardening or working in retail shops.

"We haven't seen a change in the number of kids out at night or what they're up to, so we're just staying focused on operating in a way that best ensures the safety of kids in this town," he said.

While you're with us, you can now receive updates straight to your inbox each Friday at 6am from the Katherine Times. To make sure you're up to date with all the news, sign up here.