Children in remote Australian communities face significant challenges when it comes to accessing healthcare, and Starlight Children’s Foundation is paving the way to a brighter future through their Healthier Futures Initiative.

The Healthier Futures Initiative brings Captain Starlight to health clinics in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, helping reduce the fear and uncertainty that prevents sick kids from participating in vital healthcare.

At the heart of the Healthier Futures Initiative is Captain Starlight, Starlight’s superhero. Partnering with health care professionals, Captain Starlight provides positive distraction for kids through song, dance, games, and storytelling, making healthcare visits less intimidating.

For the third year in a row, The Lott by Tatts NT is proud to support this initiative with a $100,000 donation from unclaimed prize money to help Captain Starlight continue to visit remote communities. 

When Captain Starlight visits remote health clinics, there is a significant increase in the number of children receiving necessary health checks. Captain Starlight also helps bring children out of their shell.

Following a clinic visit from Captain Starlight, a school principal from a community in the Northern Territory was so amazed at one of his eight-year-old student’s confidence.

“In the years I've known this young fella, that’s the most I’ve heard him talk!” he exclaimed. 

Starlight Children’s Foundation’s Partnership Executive Doreen Smith said that 98% of health teams they partner with in remote communities rate the impact of Captain Starlight on children as significant.

“Captain Starlight partners with health teams in remote communities to boost healthcare participation by ensuring vital clinic visits are a positive and child-friendly experience,” she said.

“What happens in childhood lasts a lifetime, and we know that when healthcare participation increases, health outcomes improve!

“Thank you to The Lott by Tatts NT for their ongoing commitment to Starlight’s Healthier Futures Initiative, supporting families in regional and remote communities across the NT”.

The Lott by Tatts NT spokesperson Liz McPherson said that she hoped the donation continues the foundation’s goal of ensuring these kids are getting the healthcare they need in a positive way. 

“The impact of this program is huge and is felt through entire communities. We are so proud to continue our support of the initiative”, she said.

“We look forward to hearing more stories about Captain Starlight's visits to communities to ensure these kids are having positive healthcare experiences and get the checks they need.”

Head here to learn more about Starlight Children’s Foundation’s Healthier Futures Initiative.