'COACH-ing' families in need

Above: Jason Coleman and Steph Sweetman who are reaching out through Lifepoint Church's COACH program.

A Rothwell church is supporting vulnerable families in the Moreton Bay region with help from Carinity.

Lifepoint Church Senior Pastor Dan Sweetman said the church has started a mentoring project called COACH (Creating Opportunities and Casting Hope).

The program aims to lift struggling families by fostering resilience and “helping them set and achieve meaningful goals and navigate life’s ups and downs”.

The initiative is being supported with funding from Carinity’s Collaborative Community Projects.

Dan said partnering with Carinity would help the church “create something truly transformational” and “bring gospel hope and practical help to our community”.

“This initiative is about providing practical support and encouragement to individuals and families in our community who are facing disadvantage and challenges,” he said.

“What makes this program so special is its focus on building real, supportive relationships. It’s not just about short-term help but empowering people for long-term change.

“Whether it’s encouraging parents, equipping young people, or supporting those ready to take positive steps forward, this program is a tangible way for us to share God’s love and make a real difference in our region.”

Eight churches in Moreton Bay, Ipswich, Maryborough, Hervey Bay, Townsville, Logan and the Sunshine Coast have been awarded Collaborative Community Projects grants collectively totalling $220,000.

Central to each project is a commitment to help relieve or mitigate disadvantage, promote connectivity for vulnerable people, or increase the strength of local neighbourhoods.