A new permanent hub offering free school essentials and vital support to Far North Queensland families facing financial pressure has officially opened its doors in Cairns.
A Lifeline for Families in Need
Centacare FNQ has launched its first permanent School Savvy Hub, located at 234 Draper Street. This initiative is designed to directly tackle the significant back-to-school costs that burden many local households. The hub will provide a dignified, shop-like experience where eligible families can access brand-new uniforms, shoes, bags, and stationery at no cost.
The official opening took place on Wednesday, 15 January 2025, with the hub beginning its services to the community immediately. This move from a pop-up model to a fixed location ensures consistent, year-round support, making it easier for families to plan and access the help they need.
More Than Just School Supplies
While the core service is providing essential items, the School Savvy Hub offers a broader range of support. Centacare FNQ Executive Director Cameron Miller emphasised that the hub is a gateway to other crucial services. "It's not just about the material items," Miller stated. The team can connect visitors with support for financial counselling, tenancy advice, and mental health services.
This holistic approach recognises that financial stress is often multi-faceted. A family seeking help with school uniforms might also be struggling with bills, housing, or wellbeing. The hub acts as a single, welcoming point of contact to address these interconnected challenges.
Addressing a Growing Community Need
The establishment of the permanent hub responds to a clear and increasing demand. Centacare reports that the cost-of-living crisis has pushed more families into hardship, making the annual back-to-school period a source of significant anxiety. The organisation's previous pop-up hubs assisted hundreds of children, demonstrating the acute need for such a service in the region.
Eligibility for the service is based on a simple assessment of need, ensuring help reaches those who require it most. The goal is to alleviate pressure on parents and carers, allowing children to start the school year with confidence and the right tools for learning.
By providing these resources for free, the hub aims to reduce educational disadvantage and promote school attendance. It represents a practical investment in the future of Far North Queensland's young people, ensuring that financial circumstances do not become a barrier to their education.
