What’s happening?
As the festive season arrives, there is a difficult reality for many Queenslanders, Christmas will not bring joy or relief.
For some people in the community, poor health, loneliness, domestic violence and poverty mean the holidays offer no break from daily hardship.
Queensland not for profit community service provider Carinity continues to support vulnerable people during this time of need.
This includes young people living in residential care who, through no fault of their own, are unable to live with their parents or in kinship care.
One of these services is Carinity On Track, which provides a welcoming refuge for children and young people in the child safety system.
Many of the young people supported by the program have experienced trauma and require a level of care that other options cannot provide.
Why it matters?
For children who cannot live at home, Christmas can be a particularly challenging time.
Disruption to family life and exposure to trauma often impacts emotional wellbeing and behaviour.
Carinity On Track provides a structured, nurturing and family-like environment where young people with complex needs can feel safe and supported.
On-site counsellors and youth workers work closely with each young person to help them manage emotions and build healthier coping strategies.
Carinity On Track Program Coordinator Sammie McLardy said trauma often sits behind challenging behaviours.
“The children are usually grappling with behavioural issues triggered by their trauma and it’s our mission and passion to guide them on how to express their emotions in more constructive ways,” she said.
Local impact
Across Queensland, Carinity supports young people as they move through the child safety system.
The focus is not only on safety, but also on stability, routine and long-term wellbeing.
Young people are supported through daily activities such as preparing for school and taking part in cooking nights.
These routines help create a sense of normality and belonging.
Larger milestones are also celebrated, including reunifying with families or gaining independence.
Each success reflects the role consistent care plays in helping young people move forward.
“Our goal is to create lasting positive memories for our young people, so they know there are people who truly care about them,” Sammie said.
“We celebrate achievements and actively support hopes and dreams, fostering an environment where individuals can truly thrive.”
By the numbers
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Ages 12 to 17, Carinity On Track supports young people within this age group who are part of the child safety system.
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Daily structured routines, activities like school preparation and shared meals form the foundation of care and stability.
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Two key Christmas Appeal initiatives, funds will support a youth camp and the construction of a playground linked to counselling services.
Zoom in
Carinity On Track focuses on both emotional healing and practical life skills.
Young people are encouraged to take part in everyday routines while receiving counselling and guidance from trained staff.
From small daily achievements to major life milestones, progress is recognised and supported.
“The positive changes we see are immense, as individuals develop essential life skills, and become empowered to find their own solutions to the barriers they face,” Sammie said.
Zoom out
Carinity’s work reflects the broader need for community-based support services across Queensland.
By providing stable care environments, organisations like Carinity help reduce long-term harm caused by trauma and displacement.
Support during critical periods, such as Christmas, can have lasting effects on a young person’s sense of safety and self-worth.
What to look for next?
The Carinity Christmas Appeal offers an opportunity to provide direct assistance to vulnerable people in the community.
Funds raised will help young people in residential care attend a Christian outdoor recreation camp and support the construction of a playground to assist children impacted by trauma to engage in counselling.
Donations can be made online at www.carinity.org.au/appeal-2025 or by phoning 3550 3737.
