Take Kare Safe Space - transition to St John Ambulance (01st July 2016)
Press Release:
Thomas Kelly Youth Foundation transitions partnership to St John NSW
The Thomas Kelly Youth Foundation is excited to announce the next stage of the Take Kare Safe Space Program, transitioning its partnership with The Salvation Army to St John NSW.
The Foundation partnered with The Salvation Army in December 2014 to develop a volunteer base and first aid service to help young people avoid the risk of late night alcohol fuelled violence in Sydney’s CBD and Kings Cross area. The partnership has been extremely successful, assisting more than 19,000 people since December 2014.
The next stage in the evolution of the program is to provide volunteers and staff access to St John vehicles, defibrillators, oxygen and first aid kits for those in need of urgent medical attention.
“The Salvation Army is proud of its involvement in the Take Kare Safe Space Program, an initiative that’s been at the frontline in the battle against alcohol fuelled violence. Thousands of young people have been able to enjoy a night out and make it home safety because of this vital initiative.” Major Bryce Davies, Inner City Mission Director, The Salvation Army said.
“The Thomas Kelly Youth Foundation is proud of its success partnering with The Salvation Army and thank them for their support in developing a strong network of volunteers and staff, assisting thousands of young people get home safely. We look forward to evolving the Take Kare Safe Space program with St John NSW.” Said Ralph Kelly, Founder and Board Member, The Thomas Kelly Youth Foundation.
The transition will be completed by 1 July 2016, with St John Ambulance offering all current staff employed by the Salvation Army on the Take Kare program, positions with the St John NSW program. Volunteers are also invited to continue working with the program with St John NSW.
“St John NSW is proud to be working with the Thomas Kelly Youth Foundation on the Take Kare Safe Space program. St John NSW has over 130 years of experience providing care, first aid and event support to the community and as such we feel we are well placed to help the program continue to grow and provide support to the city of Sydney,” Scott Johnston, Chief Executive Officer, St John NSW.
Operating every Friday and Saturday night at Sydney Town Hall Square and Kings Cross, Take Kare Safe Space provides a place where young people can rest their feet, hydrate, charge their phones, access first aid and arrange transport home.
