Puuya Foundation has experienced a successful year, but there is still work that needs to be done. Within the past year, our early years parenting programs have consistently engaged over 30 families, providing them with valuable support and benefiting from our comprehensive family initiatives. Our SONG program, which aims to nurture the next generation of leaders, works closely with local parents and children, fostering resilient families dedicated to learning together from birth. The program also engages around 10-15 youth weekly, recognising and embracing each child’s unique educational journey.

There is exciting news for 2024. We will offer community childcare services, supporting parents and caregivers in their personal growth. Notably, we were among eight remote communities to secure Commonwealth funding for this initiative.

We urgently need your support to address a critical challenge. Our current bus relied upon by families for transportation to the Centre, is no longer reliable. Despite its faithful service over the years, wear and tear, especially during severe wet seasons, necessitates an immediate upgrade. To support our programs effectively, we need reliable transportation to bring participants to the Centre, foster community engagement, and facilitate safe “on Country” excursions that promote connection through adventure-based activities.

Your generous contribution will empower us to provide secure and dependable transportation for our beloved children and families, guaranteeing their well-being during the daily journey to and from our Centre. It is crucial to highlight that Lockhart River lacks a local bus service, magnifying the significance of fulfilling this vital need. Together, we can make a lasting impact.

Your donation will have a significant impact in the following ways:

• Ensuring greater safety for our children, youth, and parents.
• Enhancing reliability, particularly during the challenging wet season.
• Improving access to education for our community.
• Demonstrating steadfast community support.
• To achieve our goal, we aim to raise $45,000. Fortunately, we have secured matched funds of $10,000, meaning that every dollar you donate will be matched up to $20,000. This doubles the impact of your contribution.

Over the last 15 years, the Puuya Foundation has remained dedicated to empowering Indigenous children and families in Lockhart River, an economically disadvantaged remote community in Australia. What started as a vision for a small playgroup has transformed into a grassroots movement, with parents and caregivers working together to create educational foundations, support families in building strong homes, and foster the growth of future leaders transitioning through high school.

Every contribution, regardless of its size, will bring us one step closer to acquiring the much-needed bus. Support Puuya Foundation by donating through our website, sharing our campaign with your network to encourage their support, and promoting corporate sponsorship opportunities for companies to demonstrate their commitment to social impact.

Together, let us harness our collective power to shape a brighter future for the invaluable children of Lockhart River, empowering them to unleash their full potential.