Canteen
Proudly supporting young people impacted by cancer
Australian Driver Trainers Association and Canteen
Canteen ADTA Driving Program
Being young is supposed to be about fun, friends and freedom, but unfortunately that’s not the reality for young people impacted by cancer.
ADTA is partnering with Canteen to help rectify this by providing free driving lessons for 100 young people impacted by cancer, valued at $30,000. Each participant will receive up to 5 free 1 hour driving lessons as part of the initiative, across New South Wales and Queensland.
A small group of young people from Canteen initially piloted the program. From the positive feedback gathered from both the young people and driving instructors, ADTA and Canteen officially launched the ongoing program.
About Canteen
Canteen is Australia's leading youth cancer charity providing evidence-based support to young people aged between 12-25 and families impacted by cancer.
Every year, another 23,000 young people have to face the challenge of cancer. We're here to help. Whether they are dealing with their own diagnosis, a close family member’s cancer or the loss of a loved one, Canteen provides:
- Connection with other young people in similar situations through events and programs
- Free counselling and individual support
- 24/7 online support communities for young people and parents
- Specialist treatment and support services for young cancer patients in hospital and then our teams help them with getting back on their feet
Canteen is also an internationally recognised, evidence-based, peak body. All our support services are underpinned by Canteen’s research and evaluation team who conduct world-class research with the goal of transforming the lives of young people affected by cancer.
How ADTA Members can help
We are seeking involvement from driving instructors across New South Wales and Queensland who would like to make a difference to these young people impacted by cancer.
Essentially, we are looking for instructors who would be assigned to a Canteen young person to deliver up to 5 x 1 hour lessons at a discounted rate of $75 per lesson (paid at the completion of the 5 lessons). We found that the instructors who participated in our pilot program were greatly moved and humbled by the experience.
If you are interested in being part of this wonderful initiative, please register your interest with Hayley Ferreira, ADTA Membership Manager at [email protected] or 0402 104 930.
Meet Canteen Youth Leader, Alicia
In 2017, I was diagnosed with stage 4 Hodgkin’s lymphoma. The rest of my life fell away after the diagnosis. I stopped studying and working. Treatment also meant getting my license was put on hold.
After years of treatment, I was finally in remission. But the effects of cancer didn’t end there. Cancer can cause heightened anxiety for so many young adults and their families. For me, getting behind the wheel intensifies these feelings.
I’ve been wanting to get my license for quite some time to gain a sense of independence and normality. But also, so I can be there for my best friend like she was for me - each week she would drive me to my rehabilitation appointments.
ADTA connected me with an incredible instructor who is helping me build the skills to drive safely and with confidence on the road. Thank you to the ADTA and to everyone who supports this initiative. Cancer has a massive impact on young adults’ lives, being able to work towards achieving my license is a major milestone in moving beyond cancer.
Learn more about Canteen
Register your interest in driving with Canteen
Contact Hayley