Help needed to create positive memories for Victoria’s most vulnerable children

Victorians are being asked to help create positive memories for children in need.

The Berry Street Positive Memory Bank is designed to give children and young people who have experienced trauma the opportunity to create positive experiences.

“Sadly, many children and young people in our care haven’t been able to enjoy the sorts of activities or have some of the things many of us would consider ‘normal’, or that we perhaps take for granted,” said Michael Perusco, Berry Street CEO.

Berry Street provides services to children, young people and families impacted by abuse, violence and neglect across Victoria. This includes out-of-home care, family violence programs, parenting support, and trauma-informed wrap-around services.

Since 2010, the Berry Street Positive Memory Bank has helped more than 500 children across Victoria. Funded entirely through generous donations from corporate organisations, local businesses, and individuals, children and young people in Berry Street’s care can apply for grants to help cover all or part of the costs of something they wish for.

“We’ve had requests for things like trampolines and sandpits, to help young kids feel at home in their new environments, as well as support to help cover the cost of school camps, and excursions, and other extracurricular activities so they can engage in the same activities as their peers,” Mr Perusco said.

“Doing what we can to try to create positive memories for these children and young people is so important, to support their mental health and wellbeing, and to help them feel a little bit special during what may be a very difficult period in their young lives.”

Other requests include holidays – sometimes with their birth families, others with foster families; lessons and equipment for music, sports, dancing, and art; gym memberships; bedroom makeovers; concert tickets; and clothing for special occasions.

The Berry Street Positive Memory Bank receives generous donations from individuals as well as local businesses and companies, including ANZ, Energy Australia, Mercer, and Stanley Black & Decker Australia.

“We’re very fortunate to have the support of organisations and their employees, who generously donate through workplace giving initiatives to help create positive memories for children and young people in our care,” Mr Perusco said.

“Every donation is greatly appreciated – and can make a really big difference to these children and young people.”

To support the Berry Street Positive Memory Bank through our Workplace Giving program, please contact us on 1800 237 797 or supportus@berrystreet.org.au.