Young people facing homelessness will be major beneficiaries from the success of YP SPACE MNC in the July round of Greater Bank’s #GreaterMidNorthCoast Community Funding Program. 
YP SPACE MNC has received $2,000 for winning the public vote that will go towards the upgrading of 10 cabins on a site recently purchased by the group to address youth homelessness in the area.
YPS is a specialist Youth Homelessness Service that operates across the Port Macquarie/ Hastings and Kempsey/ Macleay LGAs and provides support and accommodation to children and& young people aged 12 to 25 years across its targeted locations.
YP SPACE MNC Outreach Manager, Deb Tougher, said Greater Bank’s funding support will assist the not-for-profit group to meet the increasing demand for their services around the region.
“There’s a lack of affordable accommodation in many parts of the state and our area is no exception. For young people facing homelessness, those options are even less,” Deb said.
“To help address the issue we recently purchased a two-acre caravan park in Kempsey and 10 cabins to go on the site.
“The cabins were cheap as they had suffered water damage in the flooding earlier this year, so they need refreshing, including new flooring.
“This money from the #GreaterMidNorthCoast community funding program will pretty much cover the cost of that work, so we’d like to thank the Greater for their contribution to a brighter future and better opportunities for young people in our region.”
Deb Tougher, YP SPACE MNC Outreach Manager
Taree City Pigeon Racing Club and Buddy Up Australia – Forster Chapter both receiving $500 as our monthly runners up.
Greater Bank’s Mid North Coast Regional Sales Manager, Jennifer Smith, said everyone needs a space where they can feel safe and secure.
“It’s heartbreaking that young people are facing challenges like homelessness, alongside trying to get an education, find a job or just get by,” Jennifer said.
“It’s great to hear that our contribution will make a material difference to the lives of young people in our region, and we hope this can help them reach their goals.”
Nominees in the August round are Taree Little Athletics, Kids in Capes and Mid North Coast Barrel Racing & Horse Sports Club, with $3,000 up for grabs. Voting is open until 5.00pm Friday August 19 2022 at www.greater.com.au/greatermidnorthcoast.