Events and Programs
Living with cancer in the family can be isolating, and it can feel like no one around you really gets it. Canteen’s events and programs give young people aged 12 to 25 the chance to step away from the daily pressures of cancer, meet others who understand, and simply have a bit of fun. Whether you are dealing with your own diagnosis, a parent or sibling’s cancer, or the death of someone close, there is a program designed for where you are right now.
What is on offer?
Canteen offers everything from bowling to cooking classes and casual ‘drop-ins’ at your local Canteen office.
If it’s tricky to get to a face-to-face event, Canteen Connect can get you socialising from the comfort of your couch with things like book clubs, gaming nights and crafting sessions.
Queer, questioning or curious? CanQueer also offers a vibrant online community for LGBTQI+ young people.
Want to try an overnight program? Canteen’s EXPLORE, and PEER programs are for you. They each focus on slightly different stuff, but all aim to give you time to connect with others, be active, deal with feelings if you need to, and take time off from cancer.
Who can take part?
Events and programs are for young people aged 12 to 25 who are affected by cancer, whether through their own diagnosis, a close family member’s illness, or bereavement. Each program has its own eligibility, and our team can help you find the right fit. Everything is free, and where a program involves travel or accommodation those costs are covered too.
What you will get out of it?
Young people tell us these programs help them feel less alone, build practical coping skills and rebuild confidence. The focus is on peer connection, emotional support and respite, in a safe and inclusive environment guided by experienced staff.
How to join
Get started through the link below to our support page!
Events and Programs FAQs
What kinds of events and programs does Canteen offer?
Canteen provides a wide variety of free events and programs designed to give young people impacted by cancer a break from daily pressures. These include fun activities like bowling, cooking classes, casual drop-ins, and a range of digital options such as book clubs, gaming nights, crafting sessions via Canteen Connect. They also offer specialised overnight programs like EXPLORE and PEER, which help young people connect, be active, and process their feeling
Who can participate in Canteen events and programs?
Canteen programs are open to young people aged 12–25 who are impacted by cancer – this includes those with their own diagnosis, those with a parent, carer or sibling affected by cancer, and those who have lost someone close. Each program has its own eligibility criteria, but all are designed to offer connection, support, and understanding in a safe, inclusive environment.
What if I can’t attend an event in person?
If attending in person is difficult, Canteen offers a wide range of online programs and communities. Through Canteen Connect, young people can join activities like book clubs, gaming sessions, and crafting hangouts from home.
About Canteen
When cancer crashes into a young person’s world, Canteen is in their corner with whatever support they need. We provide individually tailored support to young people aged 12-25 and their parents.
Discover our other cancer services and resources
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Cancer impacts the whole family emotionally. Parents and carers may feel overwhelmed, guilty, or helpless. Support is available to help everyone cope.
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Redkite offers a safe space to talk about grief, overwhelming emotions, other people’s expectations or whatever matters most to you. We are here to support you in the way you need, when you’re ready.
Communicating about Cancer for Parents and Carers
Parenting is tough enough without adding cancer to the mix. We get it. Here are some tips for parents and carers impacted by cancer on communicating and supporting their children.
How to manage both cancer and friendships
Cancer can test friendships, leading to gains and losses. Communicate openly and lean on supportive friends during this time.
Camps
Kids’ Camps and Family Camps are opportunities for kids and their families to have fun experiences together, make positive memories and meet friends who understand.
Emotions and Cancer: Coping tips for parents
Parents and carers of children diagnosed with cancer often experience stress, overwhelm and uncertainty throughout the cancer experience. Here are our tips for coping with strong emotions during this challenging time.
Counselling and Individual Support
Canteen counsellors provide specialised support through online or face-to-face sessions, helping young people cope with cancer’s impact.
Teacher Resources about Cancer
The teacher resource pack is a guide to help school staff and parents/carers, from preschools to primary schools across Australia, navigate cancer in the school community.
Tips to help families ease financial stress while facing childhood cancer
Childhood cancer can have a large impact on a family’s financial situation. Here are some support services that may be able to help.