ANGLICARE Victoria is now running the YES Youth Hub in Wonthaggi which has been a safe and inclusive space for young people aged 12 to 25 since 2019.

The Hub offers a broad range of programs designed to build confidence, foster community participation, and reduce social isolation including the popular YouthFoodz program on a Thursday afternoon.

“Loneliness affects people of all ages. The YES Youth Hub in Wonthaggi plays a vital role in helping young people feel seen, supported, and connected,” said Youth Services Coordinator Isabella Green.

“Young people told us they wanted to learn how to cook.”

Anglicare Youth Facilitator Raf Casero, Youth Services Coordinator Isabella Green and Jack Dunn from the Salvation Army are committed to co-designing programs with young people and creating meaningful opportunities for engagement.

“We also teach table manners and explain how to sit at the table and eat correctly without putting your elbows on the table,” said Raf.

“How to use a fork and knife.”

According to Raf it’s something many parents don’t teach their children anymore.

“And they don’t learn table manners at school.”

Jack Dunn from the Salvation Army said the YES Youth Hub is a place where kids can feel safe and get the attention they need.

“Something they don’t always get at home,” Jack said.

“They get to be what they want to be.”

“We protect that space,’ said Raf.

One boy who wasn’t attending school has reconnected with school.

“No more days off school.”

Some kids who have met through YouthFoodz now talk to each other at school.

“They’ve made more friends and school attendance has gone up.”

According to Jack, kids who weren’t eating are now eating

“One boy who did not eat is now healthy and looking after his diet.”

“One young couple who attend YouthFoodz regularly have gained cooking and general life skills,” said Jack.

“They’re learning how to cook healthy meals rather than buy take-away food and frozen pizzas.”

Young people at YouthFoodz have learned to cook and enjoy vegetables in a Thai curry.

“They just need to be shown,” said Raz.

Jack explained that YouthFoodz uses simple recipes that appeal to young people and make good food more affordable.

“It’s early days,” said Isabella.

“Numbers are steadily increasing.”

“They show up once and come again.”

Drop-in sessions run after school Monday to Thursday, and the YES Youth Hub food pantry is open Monday to Thursday from 2.30pm to 5.30pm.

“Just turn up if you’re between 12 and 25,” said Isabella.

The YouthFoodz program is free.