The Cove Youth Café

History

The Cove Youth Cafe officially opened its doors on November 1^st 2007. However the project started way back in 2004. In September 2004, six different organisations came together to carry out a survey which looked at issues affecting teenagers. After the survey was completed the group felt that they needed the input of the youth to expand and digest the results of this survey. As the saying goes ‘Nothing about us, without us’.

On the 7^th of July 2005 the Voice of Westport Youth was born. A group of young people came together with a common goal to find an alternative for the youth of the town.

The issue of alcohol and its effects especially in relation to young people had been dominating the media. The government had been slow to act on this but there had been the development of a Recreation Policy. Albeit without any financial backing, it stated the need for youth cafes as an antidote to binge drinking. The Voice of Westport Youth did not wait for a youth cafe to be delivered to Westport. Instead the group took the initiative to do it themselves.

If the mountain doesn’t come to Mohamed, then Mohamed must go to the mountain’.

The Cove Youth Cafe Westport is facing a new era after the loss of its full time project worker. The youth cafe offers a place for young people to socialize in an alcohol free zone.

The Cove Youth Cafe was the first Youth Cafe in Mayo and is open for people aged 13 - 18. It is a place where young people can meet up with friends while using the many facilities on offer. There is Pool, PS2, Wi-i, X-box, Computers, Internet, Musical Instruments and Board Games.

To keep the Youth Cafe doors opened volunteers are needed especially at evenings and weekends. If you are interested please call in for a volunteer form today.

From the 3^rd of November 2009 the Cove Youth Cafe will have a new set of opening times.

Tuesday: 4 to 6 p.m.

Friday: 4 to 6 p.m.

Friday Night: 8 to 11 p.m.

Saturday: 4 to 6 p.m.

*Times subject to change. Check the Cove Youth Cafe notice board for changes in opening hours.

David O' Malley.

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