Act for Kids is proudly marking six years supporting vulnerable children and families in Adelaide, with a virtual pandemic-friendly celebration.
Since opening our doors in Marden on the 19th of May 2014, we have helped 300 children overcome their trauma from child abuse and neglect, and supported 245 parents and carers who were struggling or unable to cope.
Dr Katrina Lines, Act for Kids Executive Director of Services, said there are many more children who need urgent assistance.
“Our unique trauma treatment team, including psychologists, occupational therapists, and speech pathologists, is highly sought-after, and sadly we have a waitlist of 18 children who desperately need our help,” Dr Lines said.
“We provide life-changing integrated therapy to give children who have suffered sexual, physical and emotional abuse a second chance at childhood.
“Families are prepared to travel quite a distance to access our services, with clients coming from almost 150 surrounding suburbs.”
Dr Lines said Act for Kids was joined by Minister for Child Protection Rachel Sanderson and a range of government, corporate and philanthropic partners in marking the occasion via a ‘virtual’ celebration.
“We had planned a morning tea, but COVID-19 threw our plans out the window. However, we adapted to the times and were blown away by the number of people who attended our virtual event,” she said.
Minister Sanderson congratulated Act for Kids for six years of supporting vulnerable South Australian children and families.
“Our most vulnerable South Australians need support and it’s fantastic we have organisations like Act for Kids who are stepping up and helping the community when they need it,” said Minister Sanderson.
Jon’s story
Thanks to generous supporters, we are able to give vulnerable children in Adelaide, like 12-year-old Jon, the childhood they deserve.
Jon’s mother used illicit substances during her pregnancy with him. He suffered years of severe physical and emotional abuse and neglect, with limited access to food and medical care, and witnessed extreme domestic violence between his mother and father.
When Jon came to Act for Kids, he had rarely ever been to school, his handwriting was barely legible and he had a significant speech impediment, making it difficult for others to understand him.
He struggled to manage his emotions and behaviours, and would become aggressive towards his siblings. Joseph wasn’t coping, and he didn’t have the skills to help himself.
After one year of intensive integrated therapy at Act for Kids in Marden, Jon is now better at managing his emotions and behaviours, and can trust and open up to adults. He is attending school, has improved his literacy, speech and language skills, and others are able to understand him better.
Jon has already moved from surviving to thriving.
To learn more about our Integrated Therapy Service, click here.