Counselling that give young people impacted by cancer the chance to be heard and understood, and to discuss their emotions
Choosing to donate locally allows you to make a direct and tangible impact on the lives of young Australians affected by cancer. At Canteen, your support funds programs, counselling, and peer connection services for young people aged 12 to 25 who are navigating the challenges of cancer, either their own, or that of a family member. By giving locally, you ensure your contribution stays within the community and reaches those who need it most.
Direct impact on young Australians
Local donations to Canteen have an immediate effect. Funds raised support free counselling sessions, peer support programs, and community events across Australia, helping young people feel less isolated and more connected during difficult times.
Because these services are delivered within the local community, young people can access face-to-face support when needed, as well as online options through Canteen Connect for those in regional or remote areas.
Supporting programs that understand local needs
Cancer affects everyone differently. That’s why Canteen provides a wide range of free support services to help young people impacted by cancer overcome the specific challenges they face - challenges that vary depending on where they live, who they are, and what they’re going through.
Local donations play a vital role in making this support available. They help ensure young Australians in your community can access the support they need, when they need it most. Your support today can help:
- Fund confidential counselling and individual support that is completely free and available to all young Aussies impacted by cancer, no matter where they live.
- Deliver events and programs that allow young people to connect with peers nearby.
- Ensure that rural and remote communities have access to online services, including support groups.
- Support youth leadership programs and advocacy initiatives in local areas.
By donating locally, you help ensure services are relevant, accessible, and responsive to the people they are designed to support.
Accountability and transparency
When you donate locally, you can see the results of your contribution more clearly. Canteen provides annual and regular impact reports and a yearly annual report that outline how donations are used to deliver services and improve outcomes for young Australians.
Local support also allows Canteen to build strong relationships with communities, businesses, and supporters, ensuring that every dollar is used efficiently to maximise social impact.
Why local giving is powerful
Local donations don’t just support immediate needs - they help build a stronger future for young Australians impacted by cancer. Your contribution fuels counselling sessions that help young people cope with a cancer diagnosis, supports education and career guidance that empowers young people impacted by cancer to thrive, and funds youth leadership programs that turn lived experience into advocacy and community impact.
By giving locally, you’re investing in:
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Education and career support that helps young people re-engage with school, work, and future goals after cancer has come crashing into their lives.
Programs and events that offers some respite from the everyday stress of cancer, and allow the opportunity to connect with others who understand what it feels like to have cancer crash into your life.
Giving locally creates ripple effects: it strengthens individuals, who in turn strengthen their communities. Your support helps young people impacted by cancer to grow, lead, and inspire others - right where they live.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Why should I donate locally instead of internationally?
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Donating locally ensures your contribution directly supports young Australians affected by cancer, funding services that are tailored to their unique needs and delivered within the community.
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How does local giving benefit young people in my area?
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Local donations fund counselling, peer programs, and events that are accessible in your community, helping young people feel supported and less isolated.
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Are donations to Canteen tracked and reported?
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Yes. Canteen publishes annual and impact reports showing how donations are used, the programs funded, and the outcomes achieved for young people across Australia.
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Can donations help regional and remote communities?
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Absolutely. Local donations support face-to-face services where available as well as online support such as specialised counselling, online programs and access to an online community through Canteen Connect, ensuring young people in all areas can access support.
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How can I ensure my donation has the greatest impact?
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Donating locally to Canteen maximises the direct benefit to young Australians in your community. Combined with transparency and accountability, this ensures your support reaches the people who need it most.