Stepping Into 2026: Growth, Gratitude & Big Dreams

Dear Friends and Family of Kiota Kids,

Happy New Year! As we step into 2026, our hearts are full of hope, excitement, and deep gratitude for each of you who continues to walk alongside the children of Kiota Kids. A new year always brings fresh beginnings — and at the centre, those beginnings are already in motion!

 1. Back to School

All of our children have officially started a new school year, with uniforms, books, and big dreams. Thanks to your continued support, classrooms are once again filled with Kiota Kids students — learning, growing, and believing in what’s possible.

2. Big Steps Toward Independence

We’re incredibly proud of our 14 vocational school students who are currently on work attachments (job placements!) as part of their training. This hands-on experience is a huge milestone on their journey toward independence and employment.

They are scheduled to sit their practical exams in April, earning the certificates that will open doors to future opportunities. Watching them step confidently into the working world has been nothing short of inspiring.

3. A Dinner That Fed Many

A heartfelt thank you to Supper Club Byron Bay who hosted a beautiful fundraising dinner and raffle in support of Kiota Kids. We also want to thank the many local businesses and community members who contributed. Thanks to their generosity — and the generosity of everyone who attended — enough funds were raised to feed all the children at the centre for 158 days.

That’s 158 days of full bellies, shared meals, and nourishment made possible by community.

4. Christmas at the Centre

Christmas at Kiota Kids was filled with joy, laughter, and family. The children celebrated with games, singing, and special meals — including their favourites: chapati and goat.

They cut down a tree and decorated it together. One especially thoughtful donor gifted the centre big speakers as a Christmas present — a perfect gift for kids whose favourite activities are singing and dancing together. Music now fills the centre more than ever!

5.Looking Ahead: Volunteers Arriving in March

We’re excited to share that a team of 8 volunteers will be joining us at the centre in March! We can’t wait to welcome them into the Kiota Kids family.

With their help, we have a range of projects and programs planned — from creative arts and sports to building projects and learning activities!

Thank You for Making This Possible

Every milestone, celebration, and success story shared here is possible because of you. Your support continues to shape the lives of these incredible children — not just today, but far into the future.

As we begin 2026, thank you for believing in Kiota Kids, for standing with our children, and for helping us build a safe and loving kiota — a nest — where they can grow.

With love and gratitude,
The Kiota Kids Family

Here’s to a year of growth, courage, music, and hope.