The Venny is like a backyard for children in the community, many from the high-rise estates who do not have access to such. The aim is to provide a supervised but safe play space encouraging children to develop resilience and relationships, through play and early intervention and prevention programs. https://thevenny.org.au/about-us-2/
Situated at 85 Kensington Road, The Venny operates after school, on Saturdays and during school holidays, a strong team of experienced professionals provide the strategic play experiences, as well as a nutritious snack to between 350 and 400 children every week.
With financial support through the City of Melbourne and from a number of business organisations, The Venny also provides food parcels to families ensuring healthy school lunches during the week.
During COVID, while the centre was closed, the staff were providing online play programs, and food parcels for local community members. There has been an increase in this need and around 20 bags per month have been collected.
With the release of restriction, they have returned to open play which families needed. With a COVID safe plan, staffing and food operations have changed requiring a reduction in the number of sessions offer to 3 sessions per week. It costs around $800 per session for staffing.
Kirsty reported that the children have really suffered with the disconnection from school and their peers so the support has been vital, building relationships and community assistance.
Ninja cubbyhouse – one of the requests from the children was a Ninja cubbyhouse. Here it is on opening day.
Space is limited so all constructions and plantings have to be thought out very carefully.