YOUNG people feeling challenged by their teenage years, life circumstances, or want to find somewhere they can just be themselves are welcome to visit Jimmy’s at Rosebud.
The sanctuary for marginalised, disengaged, and disadvantaged youth on the Mornington Peninsula is the creation of philanthropist Sarah Darling and the Jimmy’s Foundation board.
It was opened by Flinders MP Greg Hunt on Monday 13 December and will be managed and fostered by the YMCA Peninsula Youth Services.
About 75 per cent of mental health problems are said to occur before a person turns 25; one in 10 of those aged 12-17 years will self-harm, one in 13 will seriously consider suicide, and one in 40 will attempt suicide.
Since opening on 1 November, 31 “young locals” have taken part in Jimmy’s programs with the aim of strengthening their mental and emotional health.
Mr Hunt said he was proud to be supporting the “improved mental health of young Australians through Jimmy’s Foundation”.
“We know that one in four … will experience some form of mental health challenge each year,” he said.
“Organisations like Jimmy’s Foundation and the YPYS are there to listen to your concerns and help you get on the right track to improved mental health.”
Jimmy’s is at 827-829 Point Nepean Road, Rosebud.
First published in the Southern Peninsula News – 21 December 2021
