Growing up is hard to do, especially in communities facing ongoing hardship, but GIVIT’s drought relief appeal is now assisting one town in boosting the self-confidence of its teenagers.
According to GIVIT CEO Juliette Wright, more than $4000 has been donated by generous Australians for a Longreach initiative, to help provide items such as new shoes, cosmetics, personal care items or an outfit from a local business, all in the name of helping its young women feel good about themselves.
“After sharing the efforts of this western Queensland community via our website, we have been blown away by the generosity of others wanting to help,” Juliette said. “Through GIVIT’s Drought Relief Appeal, more than $4100 has been donated to specifically to help young women impacted by drought.”
Also expressing her delight was Longreach’s Leanne Luck, one of the instigators of the idea, who runs the Fashions on the Field events at the local races.
She said a few mothers had contacted her to say their teenagers lacked the confidence to take part and asked if she could help.
“I was one of those, with braces and glasses, and I knew I could teach them they are a duckling becoming a swan.
“I have taught dance and others have done public speaking or are hairdressers, so between us, we thought we could offer this.”
Leanne spoke with Jason Reid from Uniting Care, who had assisted her in bringing Longreach’s first Christmas street party into being, and he was able to put Leanne and her helpers in touch with GIVIT.
The funds will enable them to run a day planned for Sunday, September 11, hosting groups of no more than 15 young women aged between 12 and 16, for motivational talks, deportment, hair and makeup tips, and a photo.
“We’ll also take them shopping at local businesses, and give them dress tips,” Leanne said.
“The timing is perfect. It’s something that schools used to do but they’re too busy now.
“Women need to be strong to participate in life out here, and as we all know, retail therapy is good for everyone.”
She said that in addition to GIVIT and Uniting Care, assistance had been given by RAPAD Employment Services, the Longreach Regional Council and the Member for Gregory, Lachlan Millar.
Juliette said that after years of drought chipping away at the resilience of western Queensland families, it was great to support locals banding together to teach young local women how to feel good about themselves, present well to others, build self-esteem and gain important skills to get their first job.
“The community wanted to give the girls items to take home with them to help implement their new skills and keep up confidence.
“It is heart-warming to see the outpouring of generosity and know these young women are supported as they work on improving their lives.”
Leanne added that the initiative would be a boost for local business, which was still reeling from the effects of drought.
“The drought won’t be over for years,” she said, referring to the tight financial situation being experienced.
“There are a lot of people ready to shut up shop at the end of the year if things don’t improve.”
People who would like to support GIVIT’s drought relief initiative can visit givit.org.au and select ‘Drought Relief’.
Sally Gall
Based at Blackall, CW Qld, where I've raised a family, run Merino sheep and beef cattle, and helped develop a region - its history, tourism, education and communications. Get in touch at 0427 575 955 if you've got a story idea for me.
Based at Blackall, CW Qld, where I've raised a family, run Merino sheep and beef cattle, and helped develop a region - its history, tourism, education and communications. Get in touch at 0427 575 955 if you've got a story idea for me.
