CARNELIAN Foundation, a small Carindale-based charity born from lived experience, is set to expand its support for local children after receiving a $20,000 boost from Small Steps 4 Hannah.
Founder Emi Hall said the funding would more than double the number of scholarships the organisation could deliver next year, allowing more Redlands children impacted by family violence to stay connected to activities that support their wellbeing.
Ms Hall founded Carnelian Foundation in 2024, drawing directly on her own childhood experience of family violence and the role music played in helping her cope.
“I built this program from exactly what I needed as a kid, and what I knew other kids needed,” she said.
“People genuinely looking out for you, and a safe space to be yourself.
“For me, that was music.
“In an orchestra, you play your part, you do what you’re good at, and your sound matters to the whole.”
The foundation funds children’s participation in activities such as sport, music and drama, removing financial and administrative barriers for families already under strain.
“Parents are time poor and overwhelmed on a good day, let alone when they’re going through something really hard,” Ms Hall said.
“We’ve removed every hurdle we can. In most cases, we fully fund the activity.”
The new funding will lift Carnelian Foundation’s capacity from 23 scholarships in 2026 to 60 in 2027.
Ms Hall said the need was growing as cost-of-living pressures collide with the impacts of family violence.
“Some parents have told us they kept paying for their child’s activity and stopped buying groceries for themselves instead,” she said.
“No parent should have to make that choice.”
Carnelian Foundation works with frontline domestic violence services and local activity providers, who often recognise when a child is struggling.
“Our goal is simple,” Ms Hall said.
“No child experiencing family violence should have to stop an activity they love because of money.”
Families seeking support can speak with their activity provider or visit carnelianfoundation.com.au, and local businesses interested in sponsoring a 2027 scholarship are encouraged to get in touch.
