Minister for Children and Minister for Disability, Lizzie Blandthorn, visited the St Vincent de Paul Society’s Bairnsdale Assistance Centre last Wednesday to get a firsthand look at the vital support services it offers to the local community.
Bairnsdale and East Gippsland face significant demand for welfare services, and the Bairnsdale Assistance Centre is a lifeline for many.
Members at the centre were able to ask the minister questions and discuss the hardships that are faced by those less fortunate in the area.
Topics discussed included the NDIS scheme, the impact of mental health, cost of living pressures and the services the Bairnsdale centre provides.
The centre, which has been at 92 Macleod Street since April 2021, has 45 dedicated members and the largest of its kind in Victoria, offering emergency accommodation, housing assistance, food relief and clothing, as well as supporting local residents with financial services through the Good Shepherd finance team.
Members at the centre also travel to other towns such as Lakes Entrance, Orbost and Mallacoota to provide aid where it’s needed.
The assistance centre also partners with Foodbank to provide emergency food relief to those in need across Bairnsdale and East Gippsland.
Those in need can access a food parcel with a range of staple items catering to the size of the family.
Each week, dozens of people receive support with food.
The centre is currently on the hunt for new members, specifically younger volunteers.
With the extra help, Cathy and other members at the centre hope to open the shower and laundry facility on weekends.
“You don’t need any experience, just a big heart,” Cathy said.
The facility is the only of its kind for people experiencing homelessness in East Gippsland.
When people book the facilities, they can access soap, towels and new underwear, and if needed vouchers to purchase clothes from the Vinnies Bairnsdale shop.
Those who are interested in applying are encouraged to call the Bairnsdale Assistance Centre – training is provided.
