News Update - Disaster Recovery efforts

Volunteer efforts recognised

Approximately 100 volunteers have been involved in the recovery efforts to date. This has been a fabulous effort and the teams have exceeded expectations with their compassion, professionalism and outstanding dedication. This has allowed the funded services of Samaritans to continue on relatively unaffected, ensuring our clients continue to be provided with excellent care.

The Bishop of Newcastle, Bishop Brian Farran will attend a thankyou function for our volunteers planned for Thursday 28th June at Warabrook offices between 1 pm and 4 pm.

Service at Christ Church Cathedral

A service for the community will be held at Christ Church Cathedral on Wednesday 20th June at 6 pm, conducted by Dean Graeme Lawrence. This will be a chance for the community to give thanks to the many people who have done so much during the disaster, to reflect on what has occurred, be thankful for our family members and friends, and to prayerfully hold those who have suffered and continue to suffer in our thoughts. Bishop Brian Farran, Bishop of Newcastle, will join Dean Graeme along with members of our emergency services, the SES and religious leaders.

Ongoing recovery for people affected by Disaster

As we get to hear about more people who have experienced loss through the storm and floods, we strongly recommend that you continue to refer them to the Disaster Recovery Centres. These centres have been set up to support people who have been affected by the flood and storms and should be the first port of call for people in this situation. Support is non means tested but these centres will not be open indefinitely, so it's important that people get in sooner rather than later.

Bishop appeals for extra support

Bishop Brian Farran, Bishop of Newcastle, is appealing for the community to support the Samaritans Winter Appeal. Income from this appeal is already lower when compared to the same time last year and we anticipate the demand to increase as people's own resources dwindle even further. We are already hearing of rental accommodation becoming unavailable as landlords repair properties and older people living alone and unable to clean up adequately. As we get to see the extent of unmet need through the outreach teams doorknock, Samaritans will be working on providing assistance and solutions.