Events and Programs
Canteen’s events and programs give young people some much-needed space away from the daily pressures of living with cancer.
Canteen offers everything from bowling to cooking classes and casual ‘drop-ins’ at your local Canteen office.
If it’s tricky to get to a face-to-face event, Canteen Connect can get you socialising from the comfort of your couch with things like book clubs, gaming nights and crafting sessions. Queer, questioning or curious? CanQueer also offers a vibrant online community for LGBTQI+ young people.
Want to try an overnight program? Canteen’s EXPLORE, and PEER programs are for you. They each focus on slightly different stuff, but all aim to give you time to connect with others, be active, deal with feelings if you need to, and take time off from cancer.
Events and Programs FAQs
What kinds of events and programs does Canteen offer?
Canteen provides a wide variety of free events and programs designed to give young people impacted by cancer a break from daily pressures. These include fun activities like bowling, cooking classes, casual drop-ins, and a range of digital options such as book clubs, gaming nights, crafting sessions via Canteen Connect. They also offer specialised overnight programs like EXPLORE and PEER, which help young people connect, be active, and process their feeling
Who can participate in Canteen events and programs?
Canteen programs are open to young people aged 12–25 who are impacted by cancer – this includes those with their own diagnosis, those with a parent, carer or sibling affected by cancer, and those who have lost someone close. Each program has its own eligibility criteria, but all are designed to offer connection, support, and understanding in a safe, inclusive environment.
What if I can’t attend an event in person?
If attending in person is difficult, Canteen offers a wide range of online programs and communities. Through Canteen Connect, young people can join activities like book clubs, gaming sessions, and crafting hangouts from home.
About Canteen
When cancer crashes into a young person’s world, Canteen is in their corner with whatever support they need. We provide individually tailored support to young people aged 12-25 and their parents.
Discover our other cancer services and resources
Grief and Bereavement Support
Redkite offers a safe space to talk about grief, overwhelming emotions, other people’s expectations or whatever matters most to you. We are here to support you in the way you need, when you’re ready.
Dealing with emotional effects with cancer on the family
Cancer impacts the whole family emotionally. Parents and carers may feel overwhelmed, guilty, or helpless. Support is available to help everyone cope.
Online Support Groups for Parents and Carers
Families often tell us that facing childhood cancer can feel isolating. Redkite’s online support groups offer a safe, relaxed and open space to connect with others who understand. Whether you prefer to listen or share, you’re always welcome.
Financial Assistance
Cancer can have a significant impact on a family’s financial situation. Redkite can help by paying for essentials like fuel, groceries, electricity and more.
Emotions and Cancer: Coping tips for parents
Parents and carers of children diagnosed with cancer often experience stress, overwhelm and uncertainty throughout the cancer experience. Here are our tips for coping with strong emotions during this challenging time.
Book Club
We have books for children, teens and adults, covering a range of topics to help throughout the cancer experience. Borrow for free for as long as you like!
Children’s Counselling
Redkite’s Children’s Counselling supports kids with cancer and siblings (5-17 years) through tailored activities. Focusing on emotional well-being, resilience, and self-esteem in a safe, caring environment.
Family Retreats
A precious break for families to reconnect and have a holiday away together, often for the first time since diagnosis.
How to manage both cancer and friendships
Cancer can test friendships, leading to gains and losses. Communicate openly and lean on supportive friends during this time.
Canteen Connect
A secure online community where 12-25 year-olds can connect with other young people impacted by cancer, check out events and chat to a counsellor.