A Mountains’ mental health service for young people has been given a $20,000 boost after receiving a grant recommended by Federal Member for Macquarie Susan Templeman. 

Mountains Youth Services Team (MYST) applied for the funding following a significant increase in demand due to the effects that the Black Summer bushfire crisis and Covid pandemic had on local young people. 

 “The MYST team told me the combined effects of bushfires and Covid resulted in an increased need for them to support young people in the local area,” Ms Templeman said. 

 “One of the ways MYST provides that support is by using its own vehicle to transport young people to important medical and psychological appointments, as well as taking part in its Outdoor Explore program, which uses bush adventure therapy.  

“Unfortunately, the vehicle the team was using was in desperate need of replacement, as maintenance and repairs were getting too costly to justify.  

 “Obviously the team need a safe and reliable vehicle to transport and connect young people with essential services, and MYST had been negotiating with Kia Australia and Great Western Kia for part sponsorship of a vehicle. 

 “The $20,000 I recommended for MYST under the Stronger Communities grant will go most of the way towards the purchase of a Kia Carnival.  

 “It was wonderful to hear both Kia Australia and the dealer willing to waive factory bonuses and provide MYST with further discounts to purchase the vehicle. 

 “The team is looking at one-off donations or raising funds through an organised event to fund any shortfall.  

 “I am really pleased these funds will be used to help young people in the Blue Mountains access. It’s a really practical way to provide assistance where it’s most needed."