Methodist Mission Southern

For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jer 29:11

Our Youth Transition House and Young Mums Transition House residents have been creating Wellbeing plans which underpin what they want to do with their lives, their hopes for their future and how they are going to get there.

The dreams and aspirations of our rakatahi are no different from any other teenager; they simply have not had the opportunities and support to realise they are capable of achieving a better life. As Luke 17:21 says, "The kingdom of God is within you."

This month, we have been discussing with residents their ideas for enhancing their wellbeing while living at the whare. Their suggestions have been inspiring and diverse. One resident expressed a desire for guitar and singing lessons, another wished to return to playing netball, some were interested in cooking classes, and many talked about going to the gym but are hindered by the cost of membership. All were enthusiastic about creating a wellbeing plan that aligns with their house plans. These wishes are small, doable everyday life and the norm for most families, contrasting sharply with the dysfunctional situations our teens have often found themselves in.

One of the house supervisors is a qualified chef, so they will be offering cooking classes during their shifts at the house, much to the delight of the residents. There has been much discussion on menus and what everyone would like to learn to cook. We have engaged our resident’s attention with support that has no strings attached, only a focus on the future and people around them that believe in them. Surely, we all need that belief to feel validated
and worthy.

A couple of past residents have already found their feet. One has applied to attend the Limited Service Volunteer (LSV) course, a free six week training programme for confidence and skills, run through MSD and the New Zealand army to get work ready and make a fresh start in life. Another has graduated from a course through Southern Institute of Technology (SIT). They have put in the hard mahi to achieve this goal and now are set to look for employment with this awesome qualification behind them.

As we help these young people to envision and work towards a better future, we are not just addressing their immediate needs but also revealing hope and a sense of purpose. By providing the support and opportunities they have been lacking, we are helping them realise that they, too, can have dreams and plans that lead to a prosperous and fulfilling life. This is our mission, inspired by faith and the belief that everyone deserves a chance to thrive.

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