Valley youth attract funding

YOUTH across the Clarence Valley are set to benefit following an announcement by incumbent Page MP Janelle Saffin that a re-elected Gillard Government will commit $90,000 to fund a youth transport and midnight basketball program.

Ms Saffin said if Labor was returned to power, $90,000 would be allocated to Clarence Valley Council with $50,000 for an integrated Youth Activities and Transport program in the Lower Clarence and $40,000 to run a Midnight Basketball program in Grafton and Yamba.

Ms Saffin said these were important local initiatives designed to give local young people recreational opportunities and help build their life skills and confidence.

Part of the Labor governments Safer Suburbs Program, the projects had reduced crime and anti-social behaviour significantly in towns including Kempsey and Foster.

The Midnight Basketball Program is held on Saturday nights from 7.30pm until midnight.

Youth between 12 and 18 have to complete workshops in health, communication, self esteem and job readiness, before playing basketball.