The MacKillop Family Services Program ‘Stormbirds’, provides an opportunity for children and young people who have experienced a natural disaster, to share their experiences of change and loss in safe and creative ways and learn skills for adapting and recovering. A trained Companion facilitates all programs, providing a safe and creative way to explore feelings and memories.

Last year, students from St Anthony’s Primary School in Kingscliff, on the NSW North Coast experienced floods and rising waters in their community. Through their participation in the Stormbirds sessions at school after these events, the students identified that they were comforted by the calm and confident reassurance from those who came to their aid.

The students got to thank their local SES and the Australian Army at a school assembly. The rescuers and their representatives were presented with cards that the children had made to show their gratitude.

Further information about The MacKillop Family Services’ Stormbirds Program can be found at MacKillop Family Services.