Families and elderly isolated individuals are struggling due to the effects of the shut-down and social isolation is taking a toll.
A problem is that those in need do not know where to go for help or who to ask for help or even don’t want to contact professional organisations themselves for help.
Demand at the food bank at the Warrandyte Rotary Op-Shop has doubled in
recent weeks although the shop is closed for regular ‘op-shop’ trading.
“But the Warrandyte Emergency Housing Support Service is able to help”,
says EHSS Chair, Carli Lange-Boutle.
“Local residents prefer to deal with a local ‘point of contact’.”
The EHSS consists of the Warrandyte Community Association, the ‘Now and
Not Yet’ café, the local Police, Warrandyte / Donvale Rotary and the
Warrandyte Lions Club.
“For example, a concerned neighbour contacted me about an isolated elderly resident who was in need of immediate support”, said Carli.
“Doncare was able to help with organising professional assistance and
referral; Derek from Now and Not Yet organised an immediate food hamper
and visit, and follow up is planned.
The ‘food-bank’ is operating out of the Warrandyte Rotary Op Shop and Now and Not Yet Café at present, in the absence of permanent ‘point of call’
premises.
The former Warrandyte Housing Support Service used to operate from the
former ‘Miner’s Cottage’ on the river bank but the service lapsed when the
principal provider, Margory Lapworth OAM, passed away.
The EHSS hopes to fill the gap left by Margory.
“It’s a great honour to save a life,” said Carli, “We aim to save more!”
Neighbours or friends of isolated vulnerable residents who may need local
assistance can contact Carli on 0433256840 or drop into Now and Not Yet
Cafe.
Carli Lange-Boutle
President
Warrandyte Community Association Inc.
24 April 2020
RACV