Safe Haven in Fitzroy Crossing: Community Hub Fights Juvenile Crime

Fitzroy Crossing's 'Night Place': A beacon of hope for at-risk youth. In the remote town of Fitzroy Crossing, Western Australia, a unique initiative is making a significant difference in the lives of young people and reducing juvenile crime. 'The Night Place,' a community hub, provides a safe space for children after hours, offering them a hot meal, games, and a place to connect with their peers. "Kids come in, so we give them a hot meal," explains Rochelle Dolby, Night Place Coordinator. The program has seen nearly 400 children pass through its doors since September, averaging 40 children per night. The initiative is not just providing a safe haven; it's also fostering friendships and a sense of belonging. "Kids have expressed, you know, they want to be with their friends, and sometimes home life is not good," says Dolby. The positive impact is evident, with local police reporting a welcome decrease in night-time incidents involving unsupervised youth. Senior Sergeant Mark Howes of Fitzroy Crossing Police states, "It's to do with kids being out at night, not supervised, opportunistic, and looking for a good time." 'The Night Place' is a testament to the power of community-led solutions in addressing complex social issues. The program's success shows that providing safe, supportive environments for young people can lead to positive change.