SHINE for Kids is the only national charity to provide services to support children and young people with a parent in prison. SHINE’s programs operate in schools, in the community, and in 27 correctional facilities throughout NSW, ACT, VIC, QLD and WA. Our programs include education support, mentoring, children’s supported transport, Aboriginal programs, child-friendly prison visits, intensive family case management, evidenced based parenting programs, facilitated playgroups, casework and carer support.

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In 2019, SHINE supported over 7,000 children and 5,000 families, 30% of whom are Aboriginal. In 2020, our team provided critical support during COVID-19 to children unable to visit their parent in prison.

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The RISE Education Program is a place-based, early intervention program supporting primary-aged children with a parent in custody. RISE gives K-6 students access to a vital support system encouraging their learning and development. It provides every student with an independent adult mentor supporting the student academically, socially and culturally. Tailored one-on-one support in the classroom ensures children with an incarcerated parent are positively engaging with education and provided the holistic support and resilience they need to not just survive an exceptionally difficult period in their lives but thrive academically. Weekly one on one support in the classroom for up to 30 primary aged students is provided by our trained RISE education volunteer mentors.

 

WEF has provided funding to support the expansion of the Rise Education program in Western Sydney