Bankstown’s youth have answered an SOS from community groups to help out during the current school holidays (2-13 July).

Mayor of Bankstown, Councillor Khal Asfour, said while most students are taking a well earned rest, more than 50 have decided to make a difference in the community.

“Around 20 teenagers took part in a graffiti clean-up at Revesby Skate Park,” Mayor Asfour said.

“Another 35 are assisting in the delivery of food with the local Meals on Wheels service.

“I am proud of the community spirit shown by Bankstown’s youth and I hope to see even more of them lending a helping hand to our community.”

15-year-old Simona El-Khawand from Revesby was motivated to get involved with the Meals on Wheels Volunteer School Holiday Program to challenge the negative perceptions about young people.

“A lot of my friends questioned why I would give up my time or be bothered to volunteer, but I really wanted to give back to the local community,” Simona said.

“Although our community in Bankstown is made up of many different backgrounds, we all have a common aim to do good.

“I wanted to show our senior residents that young people do care.”

12-year-old Jada Noshie from Greenacre feels that helping the community’s senior residents is valuable work.

"I want to help make a difference to the lives of our senior residents,” Jada said.

“I want them to know that they are valued and this is my way of giving something back to them.”