Funds boost for kids

AT-RISK kids in Greater Dandenong are receiving support to grow through Southern Cross Kids’ Camps.
Bank of Melbourne’s Neighbourhood Fund provided a $15,658.65 grant to the organisation, which runs an annual camp called Endeavour for children aged 7 to 11 from Greater Dandenong.
In its latest grant round, the fund distributed about $63,000 to organisations and projects working to improve the lives of Victorian communities.
The focus is on smaller groups that attract little government funding and might not be able to generate significant fund-raising income.
Southern Cross Kids’ Camps (SCKC) empowers children to overcome the impacts of abuse, neglect and abandonment through mentor and respite programs.
Each child is paired with a buddy at the start of camps, who ensures their safety and is a friend and positive adult role model.
Through activities, the children develop personal skills, self-esteem, confidence and trust.