Abseiling a CBD high-rise for foster kids

Fostering is a safety net for kids in need and in recognition of that essential work Victorian high school students and teachers will abseil 27 floors down an iconic Melbourne CBD building in support of foster children.

Years 10, 11 and 12 students are encouraged register a team for Altitude Shift 2020. On 17 and 18 April, participants will march up to the roof of the St James Building in Bourke St, before abseiling 113 metres back to earth. All funds raised by the event go towards the foster care programs and family support services provided by Anglicare Victoria.

Paul McDonald, CEO of Anglicare Victoria says “Through no fault of their own, foster kids are forced to step outside of their comfort zone on a daily basis. They face the fear of being in a new home, new school, surrounded by new people. Then there is the fear of being apart from family, friends and the fear of the future,” McDonald said.

“Last night, we provided a home for around 400 children, many of whom have had their schooling disrupted due to circumstances out of their control. Often these children have poor access to books, school supplies, places to study or adults to support their schooling. That means they have additional barriers to overcome and a higher risk of not completing high school or going on to further education. We work with foster children to help them understand that education is a pathway to a better tomorrow.”

Anglicare Victoria provides support for around 80,000 children, young people and families in need each year. As the state’s largest foster care organisation, they provide foster and residential care, emergency relief, parenting and family services, financial and legal services.

Altitude Shift participants must be over 16 years. There is no fitness level or experience requirements. Full abseiling training and support will be provided.

Participants are asked to fundraise a minimum of $850 for Anglicare Victoria’s foster care programs.

To register or donate https://www.altitudeshift.org.au/

View the Altitude Shift short video

Foster care fast facts

• There are 11,000 young Victorians in foster care today (Approximately 50,000 across Australia).
• Children and young people in foster care are generally placed in the system due to violence, neglect or abuse in their family environment.
• School disruption due to moving between foster care placements, low self-esteem, trauma, poor access to books, lack of fundamental language and pre-reading skills are some of the factors that pose barriers to children in care engaging in education.
• Anglicare Victoria provides a home to more than 400 children each night.
• Anglicare Victoria provides support for 80,000 children, young people and families each year.
• Anglicare Victoria provides foster and residential care, emergency relief, parenting and family services, financial and legal services.
• Funds raised from Altitude Shift go toward Anglicare Victoria’s foster care programs, providing;
  • a child a placement
  • support for a carer
  • academic and emotional development