MIFANT's June Update: Mental Health Services Darwin - Support & Activities

A Warm Welcome and a Generous Gift

This month, MIFANT had the pleasure of welcoming Michael Koulianos, President of the Greek Community NT (GOCNA), to MiPlace Hub. Michael came to see our mental health hub in person, learn about the work we do supporting people with mental health challenges across the Northern Territory, and meet some of our participants along the way.

He also presented MIFANT with a $2,000 donation on behalf of GOCNA. This contribution goes directly toward our mental health support services for the Darwin community, helping us keep MiPlace Hub open, welcoming, and full of the kind of activities you will read about below.

Thank you, Michael and GOCNA, for your generosity and for believing in what we do.

What Has Been Happening at MiPlace Hub

Growing Together

This month, participants got their hands into the soil, planting radishes in MiPlace Hub's garden. Gardening gets people outside, gives the day some structure, and builds a simple routine to look forward to, small things that add up over time.

Art and Origami

Participants folded colourful lollipop origami for a sweet and playful afternoon. Art day brought a quiet highlight this month, watching one participant start his second painting. We have had lots of conversations over time about ideas, concepts, and what he might like to create, but taking that step to actually begin can be a big thing. We were glad to be there for it.

Games, Pool, and Bingo

The pool table saw some serious competition this month, the arcade machines came out, and a good round of bingo had the Hub buzzing. Games like this build confidence and give people a reason to show up, and for our participants, that sense of routine and belonging is one of the most important parts of their wellbeing.

Cool Program Update

Getting out into Darwin has been a big part of June for the Cool Program crew.

The month kicked off with coffee and cake at the Botanic Gardens, followed by fish and chips at a local cafe. Participants also went on a street art hunt through Darwin city, tracking down murals and laneway art across the CBD.

There was a day trip to Berry Springs, with a stop at the tavern to round things off. The group also visited Aboriginal Bush Traders on the Esplanade, where they browsed ethically sourced Indigenous art, bush tucker products, and handmade crafts.

The Cool Program is all about making these moments accessible for everyone in our community, and June gave us plenty of them.

Want to know more? Drop by MiPlace Hub at 2/273 Bagot Road, Coconut Grove, or visit www.mifant.org.au. Open Monday to Friday, 9:30am to 1pm.

If you would like to learn more about MiPlace Hub or find out how to get involved, contact us on (08) 8948 1051 or visit www.mifant.org.au.