Young people are set to benefit from local government and community projects as the state government delivered COVID-19 recovery grants.
This year, the grants have an emphasis on approving projects that support, inform and build capacity of young people following the pandemic, particularly in the areas of gaining and retaining employment opportunities, and supporting the mental health of youth.
The Shire of Murray is one of 31 grant recipients that will deliver projects to support young people aged 10-25 years.
Receiving $6382 through the grant, Momentum for Murray, will partner with a range of stakeholders to deliver training and workshops in the areas of mental health and suicide prevention, development of ongoing pop-up youth 'zones' at events, finance management and budgeting workshops and career development workshops.
Shire of Murray chief executive Dean Unsworth said the project would support a suite of youth focused activities.
"The Momentum for Murray project will be a collaboration between the Shire of Murray, its young people, local schools, local youth support agencies such as headspace and Peel Youth Services as well as Murray Alliance Against Depression," he said.
"The grant will support a suite of youth focused activities that will be delivered over the next 12 months including pop-up youth zones, mental health awareness events, financial management workshops and an employment expo."
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Mr Unsworth said the Momentum for Murray project was launched after a dedicated youth zone was set up at this year's Pinjarra Festival.
"Local youth group Murray Youth for Youth created a 'chill zone' with gaming activities, virtual reality and mini games."
WA Youth Minister Dave Kelly said the grants "support the ongoing work young people are doing across the state to make their communities a better place".
"The McGowan government recognises that the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on young Western Australians, especially in relation to gaining employment skills and their mental health," he said.
"The 31 projects will also promote and create services and programs to keep young people well and promote lifelong healthy lifestyles."
The Shire is currently working with collaborative partners to finalise the Momentum for Murray calendar, which will continue to roll out over the next six to 12 months.
In the meantime, Murray's 12 to 25-year-olds can follow @murrayyouthforyouth on Facebook.