Last year, the centre received an NRMA Insurance community grant and has used the money to pay for PCYC membership for all its young people.

Centre youth worker Ashley Forrest said the grant had gone a long way.

‘‘The kids at Wollongong Flexible Learning don’t fit in at mainstream schools because of their involvement with the juvenile justice system, trauma or they’re disengaged with education for any reason,’’ she said.

‘‘[The grant] has helped them access services for free. It’s given them an opportunity to participate in recreational activities rather than antisocial activities.’’

The community grants program is now open for 2014 applications.

The scheme provides grants of up to $5000 for projects that make communities safer and more sustainable. 

Community groups interested in applying for a grant must apply online here. Applications close at 5pm, March 31