State government gives half-a-million-dollar boost to support kids impacted by cancer

The Palaszczuk Government is investing almost half-a-million- dollars in Camp Quality’s Primary School Program to benefit more children affected by cancer than ever before.

Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Steven Miles said $495,000 will be provided to Camp Quality over three years, commencing 1 January 2019.

“Every year, thousands of Queensland kids are impacted by cancer, either through their own diagnosis or the diagnosis of a loved one,” he said.

“Camp Quality’s Primary School Program has proven to make a difference in these kids’ lives, and kids around them in understanding the devastating affect cancer can have on families.

“That’s why our government is investing half a million dollars in a program that focuses on the power of positivity and the importance of being supportive.

“Camp Quality has been an invaluable part of the hospital experience for sick kids, including visiting kids in the oncology ward with the Camp Quality puppets, hosting support programs for families, pizza nights, and off-site family camps.”

Minister Miles said the funding would mean Camp Quality could reach more schools than ever before, particularly in regional and rural settings.

“The theatre program answers all the difficult questions kids have about cancer, dispels common myths and teaches students how to be supportive and understanding of kids impacted by cancer,” he said.

“Since 2015, the Primary Schools Program has visited 515 schools, with around 154,000 students, teachers and parents benefiting.

“The funding will enable Camp Quality to expand its program and reach more schools than ever before, with a strong focus on regional and remote schools.”

Minister Miles said the funding also includes a portion for Camp Quality to scope and develop an electronic version of the program.

“This program is important, and every child should have access to these educational materials, which is exactly what these digital assets can achieve.

“The existing program content will be converted to video and animation, enabling the ‘show’ to be performed anywhere, at any time.”

ENDS

Media contact: Amy Hunter 0423 651 484