Berry Street is one of Australia’s leading independent child and family service organisations. With a legacy stretching back to 1877, it supports over 37,000 children, young people, and families each year across Victoria — many of whom have experienced trauma, abuse, neglect or family violence. Through therapeutic programs, safe housing, education, and family support, Berry Street works to ensure every young person can thrive.
One such initiative Berry Street offers is the Positive Memory Bank, a program designed to create special, meaningful experiences that help children heal. Every child deserves joyful memories, the small but powerful experiences that make them feel safe, connected, and cared for. For many children and young people supported by Berry Street, these moments can be life-changing.
The concept is simple but powerful: help children and young people build positive memories that nurture self-worth, encourage growth, and create hope. These experiences are deeply personal, carefully tailored to each individual’s needs and dreams. For one child, it might be guitar lessons and a new bike to get outdoors. For another, it’s play therapy to help process trauma or a room makeover to create a sanctuary of safety.
Jo*, aged 9, dreams of visiting a cave to learn about stalactites, and thanks to the Positive Memory Bank, that trip will happen. Sarah* wanted to try an escape room to build her confidence and face challenges. Pip*, in foster care since the age of six, is now reconnecting with her culture through a trip to her maternal Country. Another child, Boyd*, requested equine therapy, explaining, “I feel animals understand me.”
These aren’t grand, expensive gestures. They’re moments of recognition, and reminders that these children are seen, valued, and worthy of happiness. The Positive Memory Bank has already funded nearly 100 such experiences across Victoria in the past year alone. The impact is profound: stronger emotional regulation, improved mental health, increased confidence, and a renewed sense of possibility.
Berry Street is seeing more children than ever who need this kind of support. With the rising cost of living, an ongoing housing crisis, and escalating rates of family violence, families across all backgrounds are struggling — and too many children are falling through the cracks.
Children as young as six are staying in hotels because there are no available foster placements. Young people are ‘aged out’ of the care system at 18, facing homelessness with little support. Families are under immense pressure, and intergenerational trauma is rising. Without intervention, many of these children risk carrying the effects of trauma well into adulthood.
How You Can Help
This end of financial year, you can help create positive memories and brighter futures.
A tax-deductible donation to Berry Street helps fund the Positive Memory Bank and other vital programs, including therapeutic care, safe accommodation, family support services, and trauma-informed education.
Every contribution over $2 is fully tax-deductible — and every donation, no matter the size, makes a tangible difference in a child’s life.
101 Collins regularly holds gold coin donation activations for tenants throughout the year, with proceeds benefiting Berry Street. If you or your workplace want to go further, whether by fundraising, volunteering, or learning more, Berry Street’s Philanthropy team would love to hear from you.
Visit Berry Street online here.
