Kids in care on the rise through COVID19

Tee Up for Kids Foundation said today kids in out of home care were facing a critical period in their welfare because of the COVID lock-down measures.

The Foundation supported the recently released Berry Street report that highlighted thousands more children were now likely to be placed in out-of-home care.

“We have already seen a 10 per cent increase in the numbers on a year-on-year basis,” said Tee Up for Kids Foundation Chairman Mark Northeast.

“We have round 12,000 children now ‘in care’, but we agree with Berry Street that the number could rise to 27,000 within six years.

“These kids are extremely vulnerable, often because of abuse and neglect, along with family violence, financial stress and substance abuse. The pandemic measures are exacerbating this.”

The Tee Up for Kids Foundation is a golfer-based charity which has been raising funds for more than 10 years for the educational needs of the children. Research shows that education is a key factor in helping these children to lead a better life.

“In their current circumstance education is often missing, so if we can address it when they are most vulnerable it will help turn-around lives,” said Mr. Northeast.

“Golfers who cannot access their courses in Victoria could support these children by donating to the foundation.”

Tee Up for Kids International Patrons Geoff Ogilvy and Su Oh also supported the call for golfers to get behind the education appeal for funds. All donations are tax deductible. www.teeupforkids.com

Further information:

Mark Northeast: Tel: 0409 337 083