UCare Gawler’s Sheena Tapping (third from left) surrounded by support, from left, Gawler Council’s youth development officer Ebony Steadman and community development officer Linda Weiss, Raising Literacy Australia’s Janet Leske, St George’s Anglican Church and Church of the Transfiguration’s Simon Bailey, Angle Vale Lions Club’s Kelly and (behind) Frank O’Riley, Woolworth’s Deb Trigg, Robert Brookes of the Sandy Creek Uniting Church, Rotary Club of Gawler Light’s Peter Harper and Richard Tucker, and Bev Thom of the Gawler Interchurch Council. PHOTOS: Ellouise Crawford.
TODAY more people than ever need the support services of organisations like UCare Gawler, but a combined effort from the local community has ensured no one has been turned away.
Gawler UCare has given an overwhelming ‘thank you’ to the individuals, community groups and clubs who have gone above and beyond to assist the organisation assist others, particularly over the past few months.
The amount of people needing financial guidance or calling on UCare Gawler for food has tripled since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, with the service continuing to provide food packages to around 150 households a day.
UCare Gawler program manager and financial counsellor Sheena Tapping said volunteers have been faced with an unprecedented need for emergency relief for those affected by the coronavirus, while also dealing with supermarket shortages and reduced assistance from other welfare organisations due to restrictions.
On one day alone, 300 people presented to UCare Gawler for help.
“With the support and drive of Linda Weiss from the Gawler Council we were truly overwhelmed with the care, thoughtfulness and material donations that we received to distribute to those effected,” she said.
“The sheer demand for food relief meant without such support we would most certainly have needed to turn some people away.
“There are so many community groups, church congregations and individuals that have assisted us to meet the demand and we are so truly grateful for their help.
“It also really reinforces what a wonderful and caring community we live in.
“On behalf of the clients and staff at UCare Gawler, I wish to extend our deepest appreciation and thanks for everybody’s kindness and compassion.”
Ms Tapping said despite the easing of COVID-19 related restrictions, the need for help is continuing as people struggle to catch-up on missed bills or are yet to return to their previous hours of work.
“Your support makes a real difference to financially disadvantaged individuals and families experiencing tough times,” she said.
“The essential support they receive goes a long way to assist them in getting back on their feet as well as meeting their immediate needs.”
Aside from food packages, UCare Gawler also offers a financial counselling service and No Interest Loan Scheme for the purchase of essential goods.
The UCare Gawler Site, at 10 Tod Street, is open for the donation or collection of non-perishable food items between 9.30am and 3pm, Monday to Friday, and for financial assistance by appointment (8522 4522).
