A youth centre has received a much-needed boost from a fellow community provider after government funding cuts threatened its survival.
Engadine District Youth Service (EDYS), which provides support for young people, was at the brink of closure until this month when it was thrown a lifeline from Sutherland Shire Family Service, which merged some of its services with those offered at the centre.
This means the Engadine site will be able to continue its valuable work in the region in helping youth get back on track.
Sutherland Shire Family Service will move some of its projects to the Engadine site, including the family-focused "building resilience in children" program.
Engadine District Youth Service will also be able to maintain its free recording studio for aspiring young musicians and an afternoon drop-in service for students who struggle in school environments.
Other programs that will be rejuvenated include free weekly barbecues, which give young people the chance to interact and meet youth workers.
Sutherland Shire Family Services spokeswoman Rachel Bertram said it was a positive step forward.
"This move will not only increase access to services, but will create new ways for the young people of the shire to engage with our range of programs," she said.
"It enables us to increase service delivery to the Engadine and surrounding areas for children, young people and families.
"Both our Jannali and Engadine sites are welcoming and embracing this change, and our staff have already been in consultation with schools.
"We will now be able to offer a more present and proactive presence within the Engadine community."
EDYS youth worker Pat Thoms said the collaboration was significant.
"Last year we lost federal government funding to Youth Connections despite the program's success,'' he said.
"This was a devastating blow to the organisation . . . staff were made redundant.
"The merger enables us to continue a much-needed service to young people in the area."
