Centrelink staff donate to support local people in need

New South Wales media release
Monday, 20 September 2010

Community organisations in the region have received a boost thanks to the generosity of staff at Batemans Bay Centrelink.

In support of National Homeless Persons’ Week, the staff donated to St Vincent de Paul and raised money to purchase items for the Moruya Youth Refuge.

Batemans Bay Centrelink Manager, Debbie McCormack, said staff wanted to recognise National Homeless Persons’ Week by donating to local community organisations helping vulnerable people.

"We asked the Moruya Youth Refuge what they were in need of, and they said they were desperately short of brand new towels.

"Centrelink staff donated enough money to buy twelve pairs of towels and bathmats, to help make the refuge more comfortable for local young people," said Debbie.

"Staff also generously donated clothing during Homeless Persons’ Week, which we passed on to St Vincent de Paul."

Judith Johnston, a Social Worker at Batemans Bay Centrelink, said Social Workers and Community Engagement Officers play a vital role in assisting homeless people and those at risk of homelessness.

"Centrelink has around 600 social workers, working in over 300 Centrelink customer service centres and call centres. Last year, our social workers had over 58,000 contacts with people who were homeless or who were experiencing accommodation issues," Judith said

"I urge anyone who is seeking support to visit a Centrelink customer service centre or speak to a Centrelink Social Worker by calling 13 10 21."

For more information, telephone the relevant Centrelink media contact.