15 June 2011

Young Cantabrians have one week left to be nominated for Youthtown’s ‘Break from the Quake’ camps which will run during the July school holidays, with applications closing next week.

The camps provide the opportunity for 500 young people aged 10-17 years to take a week-long ‘Break from the Quake’ camp during the holidays. Students will be flown to Auckland for camp-based adventures in locations throughout the North Island. The camps are completely free of charge with all costs covered by Youthtown and Break from the Quake sponsors and supporters.

After the most recent aftershocks this week, Youthtown has now extended the list of eligible schools to include Riccarton High, Burnside High, Papanui High, Hillmorton High, Mairehau High, Hagley High and Unlimited Paenga Tawhiti. This decision was made because it became apparent that there were a number of students throughout the entire city, and particularly in these areas, who were in need of some time out.

Schools who were already invited to put forward students to participate in the camps include those in the most affected Eastern suburbs including the “twin schools” of Linwood College and Cashmere High.

Youthtown CEO, Keith Thorpe, says the camps will provide a getaway for students who whose nerves are frayed following the quakes and also those who may be suffering from the drop in extra-curricular activity on offer to them.

“Our consultation with Christchurch colleagues revealed some consistent truths – young people coming to school with behavioural issues, showing signs of stress, students not returning to school and a real lack of organised fun is taking its toll. These latest quakes only exacerbate the situation and add extra stress on families struggling to cope. It may be that students are feeling displaced, frustrated or are simply bored,” says Thorpe.

“Youthtown is all about providing positive, fun environments for physical, social and creative youth activities. Our team of talented youth workers has put together a fantastic week-long programme that will be full of fun and surprises, including a few special guests, to ensure these kids have the time of their lives in a safe and supportive environment and return to Christchurch refreshed and re-energised.”

Thorpe added the organisation was doing everything it could to work with and support existing Christchurch-based youth organisations.

Application forms are now circulating through schools and community organisations. Students can be nominated by their school, family or a mentor. All camp costs will be fully funded by Youthtown, including airfares, travel, meals and accommodation.

The students will have the opportunity to participate in a range of activities including outdoor adventures at Tongariro National Park, getting intrepid on Great Barrier Island and taking exciting day-trips in and around Auckland city. They will be accompanied by selected supervisors and caregivers to ensure continuity of care.

Youthtown has partnered with a series of organisations including Air NZ, Auckland Council and The Levene Foundation, to enable the camps to happen.

Other organisations that have generously donated products and services include Telecom, Farmers, Rainbow’s End, Auckland Zoo, Spirit of Adventure Trust, Subway, Northern Districts Coastguards, Eden Park Trust Board, Auckland Rugby Union, Skycity, Event Cinemas, Brightstar, NZ Maritime Museum, Snowplanet, Tree Adventures, Vero and Restaurant Brands.

Anyone wanting to nominate a young person to take part in a camp can contact Rebecca Duell on 027 242 4099 or email Christchurch@youthtown.org.nz.

For more information on ‘Break from the Quake’ visit www.youthtown.org.nz.

ENDS

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