Kids clubs proving popular with military families
Paper Mache fun at the Singleton RSDS Kids Club. (Photo supplied by Captain Leanne Bennett)
When The Salvation Army Red Shield Defence Services (RSDS) decided to increase its focus on ministry to Defence Force families last year, a number of kids clubs at nearby corps commenced.
The first Red Shield Defence Services Kids Club began at Singleton Corps in early 2012. Six adults led the club, four from the Singleton Corps and two mothers of Defence family children who trained as leaders.
“This is very exciting to see our corps and Red Shield Defence Services joining together in ministry,” says Captain Leanne Bennett, Singleton Corps Officer and RSDS Military Area Representative.
Many Defence Force families face months at a time without a husband or wife or mum or dad because they are serving on the front line overseas. The kids club initiative has given these families a link to The Salvation Army church community, providing healthy environments for children and young people to grow and learn and a supportive environment for the parents.
At Singleton Corps, 18 children attended the first kids club on a Friday afternoon. “The hall was very noisy and busy as much fun was had with games and craft,” says Captain Bennett.
“All the children have made new friends at kids club and parents say they leave glowing.”
Later in the year, on Good Friday, a kids club family night was held with 31 children and their parents.
“For two hours the hall was a hive of activity whilst we shared in a meal, craft and a children’s Easter movie,” says Captain Bennett. “All the families left saying they would come to the next one!”
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