Winter Donation Drive a Huge Success
Garden Village Retirement Living residents have shown their generosity to help people experiencing homelessness in our local area. The July Winter Donation Drive, in support of the Port Macquarie Hastings Homelessness Collective, was an overwhelming success.
This week the Garden Village bus trip headed to the Glasshouse Forecourt in the CBD to deliver the donations. Thanks to the generosity of our residents and the dedication of our team, we were able to fill a trailer with essential items to be distributed at the Collective’s “Fill a Tent” day.
“A big thank you to our team members Ash, Jo, Kate and Betty for leading this vital effort, alongside our residents who contributed to this meaningful cause. As a not-for-profit organisation, this is us living our vision of ‘an inclusive community where older Australians have equitable access to high-quality support and accommodation tailored to their unique needs,’ said CEO Craig Wearne.
According to Mission Australia “Home is more than four walls and a roof. Home is a place where people can feel safe and secure. Adequate housing is essential for survival and critical to a person’s wellbeing. Access to safe and secure housing is a basic human right but unfortunately, there are over 122,000 people experiencing homelessness on any given night in Australia.”
Uncle Bill opened the day with a beautiful Welcome to Birpai Country. Speakers Councillor Nik Lipovac & Councillor Lauren Edwards shared insights into the importance of safe, secure and affordable housing for all. Barbara, Phylis, Anne and Margarite came along to help and thank you Derek for driving the bus. Special thanks to Retirement Living Coordinator Ash and Wellbeing Coordinator Betty for arranging the donation drive.
Homelessness Week, which runs until Sunday, August 11, raises awareness about the impact of not having a place to live. Hastings Homelessness Collective said “We are incredibly grateful for the outpouring of support and generosity from our amazing community at today’s Homelessness Awareness Day. With your huge amount of donations and kindness, we are able to make a real difference in the lives of those in need. Thank you for coming together to create a better tomorrow for those doing it tough.”
The success of the Winter Donation Drive shows the heart of the Garden Village community and reminds us all of the importance of helping those in need.
