GLADSTONE Ports Corporation has announced $20,000 raised by its Port to Park fun run has helped fund the establishment of a therapy garden for disadvantaged children.
The Safe Harbour Therapy Garden, an initiative of Gladstone’s Act for Kids charity, officially opened this month after the funds were raised at the fun run last August.
The project received support from the Creative Recycling Centre community group and the local Men’s Shed.
“The garden project is nothing short of inspiring and we’re humbled to know it will bring a smile to those children who have endured suffering and need it the most,” GPC CEO Craig Haymes said.
“It’s wonderful to know that community groups have brought the area brought to life and the funding is all thanks to locals who entered GPC’s Port to Park fun run and ran for the good cause,” he said.
“It goes to show how important the funding is to these groups which provide a vital service in our region and we can’t wait to support another worthy group this August with the community’s help.”
Act for Kids CEO Dr Katrina Lines said the Safe Harbour Garden is already having a positive impact on Gladstone children who have experienced trauma.
“The garden has become a much-loved inclusive, educational and play-based space where children can feel safe and comfortable with their therapist,” Dr Lines said.
“Act for Kids is incredibly grateful to the Gladstone Ports Corporation and its Port to Park fun run for funding this special project which means children can receive vital therapy in the outdoor environment. We know nature is a fundamental to supporting children’s wellbeing.”
This year’s Port to Park fun run will be held on 21 August. It aims to showcase Gladstone’s port and waterfront parklands while offering enhanced vantage points and spaces for families and friends to enjoy the morning.
