SHINE for Kids

05/06/2026

“It was so rewarding to see her confidence grow.”

Our parenting program helped first-time mum Jasmine discover confidence she didn’t know she had.

At first, she felt nervous, unsure of her place in a group where many of the other participants already had children.

But through the program, she learnt that she already had many of the skills and knowledge she needed, having helped raise her younger siblings.

She was so proud when she graduated from the program that she asked for her certificate to be sent to her family.

Her mum was delighted, making the achievement feel like a real milestone.

For our team, supporting Jasmine was a reminder of the importance of helping women recognise their own strengths and capabilities.

Today, Jasmine feels stronger, more prepared, and hopeful about the future she is creating for herself and her baby. 💛

Please donate today to our and help more women find their strength: https://eofy-appeal.shineforkids.org.au/

In custody in Queensland and a first-time mum-to-be, Jasmine*, recently took part in our Bringing Up Great Kids parenting program, an experience that helped

02/06/2026

More than 40,000 children across Australia right now are growing up with a parent in custody.

Many face challenges no child should have to navigate including isolation, stigma and disrupted family relationships.

But with the right support, they are not facing this alone. 💛

This June, please if you can, help a child Shine and make your tax-deductible donation before 30 June: https://eofy-appeal.shineforkids.org.au/

Thank you so much. Every bit counts.

27/05/2026

“Child & Parent days are about connection in a relaxed environment.

"They are having lunch together; they are doing things families do when they are all at home and it is incredibly normal.

"These visits are longer than the regular visits and the child’s caregiver is not present – it really is an opportunity for mum to be mum.”

- Child & Family Coordinator, SHINE for Kids💜

This special day for mothers and their children was held recently at Dillwynia Correctional Centre.

The event, organised with CSNSW staff, allowed mothers in custody to spend extended time with their children.

These opportunities to make positive memories together are so valued by families and help children during an incredibly tough time.

Read more here in this story by Corrective Services NSW: https://lnkd.in/eWDYsKux

21/05/2026

We know our parenting program is helping to change lives and strengthen families. 💛

We hear it in the feedback like this that families share with us every day.

Our parenting program, delivered in custody to mums and dads, gives parents the opportunity to pause, reflect, and better connect with their children.

When parents are supported, they can show up and help their children thrive. And that’s what it’s all about.

Learn more and support our work: www.shineforkids.org.au

14/05/2026

Young people in custody discovered the joy of cooking and their own capability through this hands on cooking program with SHINE for Kids and special guest Julie Goodwin 🍴

From frying chicken and baking berry muffins to sitting down and sharing a meal together, the session was filled with learning, teamwork and moments of genuine pride.

The program goes beyond cooking skills, supporting young people to build confidence, independence and positive social connections. For some participants, experiences like this have been rare, with limited opportunities to learn everyday cooking skills or sit together around a table to share a meal.

By the end of the session, the kitchen was cleaned, dishes packed away, and the group left with full stomachs, new skills and plenty of smiles.

Read the full story here: https://shineforkids.org.au/stories/cooking-with-confidence-julie-goodwin-joins-young-people-in-custody/

This program was supported by the Women NSW Investing in Women grant.

12/05/2026

These children in our mentoring program spent the week creating cards, gifts and messages for the mums, step-mums, aunties, sisters and carers who mean so much to them 💛

Mother’s Day can be especially hard when mum isn’t at home, but our team makes sure every child has the chance to celebrate, feel connected and show someone special they care.

Learn more about our programs supporting children with a parent in custody via the link in our bio.

The Benevolent Society supports mentoring. Thank you!

08/05/2026

A special day for mothers and their children was held recently at Dillwynia Correctional Centre.

The event, organised by Shine for Kids and CSNSW staff, allowed mothers in custody to spend extended time with their children.

It was an opportunity to make positive memories, create arts and craft, connect and share a meal together.

Read the full story below!

07/05/2026

“The boys told their mum it was the best day. She said they haven’t stopped talking about it since!” 💜 Feedback after another wonderful SHINE for Kids Child & Parent Day.

These are so cherished by families and give kids missing their mum or dad supported quality time together so they can build a relationship.

“I’ve watched these children grow up over the past few years, building stronger relationships with their dads, growing in confidence ... Most of all though, I’ve loved seeing them create lasting memories,” said our team.

A huge thank you to the centre for helping make the day so special, from staff who blew up countless balloons, to the catering, including many treats!


Corrective Services NSW

05/05/2026

A little peek at some exciting new things happening at SHINE for Kids.

These young people in custody discovered the joy of cooking while building confidence during a recent hands-on class with our team and inaugural MasterChef Australia winner Julie Goodwin!

We'll share more soon and can confirm, everyone left with some great tips and skills, and full stomachs!

NSW Department of Communities and Justice

30/04/2026

It’s the beautiful messages, letters, texts and words of gratitude (like this one) that our team receives every day that make the impact of our work clear.

Learn more and support children to be connected and supported www.shineforkids.org.au