Member for Cootamundra, Steph Cooke, has welcomed a $25,000 investment in the Cowra Information and Neighbourhood Centre (CINC) to strengthen its Strong Ways after-school program.

Strong Ways is an eight-week program for young people aged 10–17 in Cowra who are at risk of disengagement or early contact with the justice system, with priority given to Aboriginal young people and their families.

Ms Cooke said the funding will enable CINC to further expand the support it provides through a program uniquely designed to meet the needs of the Cowra community.

“For decades, the Cowra Information and Neighbourhood Centre have supported vulnerable young people and families, and this funding will ensure that important work can continue,” Ms Cooke said.

“Early intervention programs like this can make a real difference by helping young people overcome challenges before they escalate, while also providing families with the support they need.”

The funding has been made available through Stream 1 of the Community Safety Investment Grant Program, which is designed to empower local organisations to design and deliver initiatives that support vulnerable families and prevent youth offending.

“Community organisations understand the unique needs of their local area, which is why programs such as the Community Safety Investment Grant Program are so valuable,” Ms Cooke said.

“This funding gives trusted organisations like CINC the opportunity to continue delivering programs and initiatives that are tailored to local needs and are proven to make a difference.”