Exciting News: Funding approved for Mossman Uniting Church's multifunctional community space!

By Andrew McKaysmith (Synod Content Creator) and Vanessa Griffiths (Synod Fundraising Support Manager) 

Mossman Uniting Church has received the green light for funding from the Growing Regions Program for a multifunctional education and community space.

Mossman, a regional town in the lowest Socio-Economic Indexes for Areas (SEIFA) decile nationally, is dealing with a significant lack of community facilities.

Pastor Nadia Abraham from Mossman, Port Douglas, and Mt. Molloy Uniting Church said the funding was allocated for the creation of a versatile community complex that includes an Out-of-School Hours Care (OSHC) facility and a community activity centre designed to be easily accessible for individuals with mobility issues.

"We were fortunate to receive excellent assistance with our funding application, and the community was eager to offer their support," she said. "Another little miracle that happened is we were able to find a builder willing to get involved and give us support rather quickly."

Upon completion, immediate services include before-school care, after-school care, vacation, playgroups, support groups, and art therapy.

The Australian Government has pledged $600 million over three years, starting from 2023-24, for the Growing Regions Program. This initiative offers funding to local government bodies and registered not-for-profit organisations for capital projects to enhance community and economic infrastructure in regional and rural areas throughout Australia.

Pastor Nadia said the buildings would be an asset to the entire community.

"We're providing essential support to parents with OSHC, aiding them in managing work and business commitments," she said. "Also, offering kids a dedicated space for socialising and engaging in activities will contribute to mitigating juvenile social challenges."

Within 24 months, the community can expect neurodiverse learning spaces, improved mental health support facilities, expanded family assistance programs and the establishment of community training centres.