Centrelink Cowra supporting the homeless
New South Wales media release
Thursday, 29 July 2010
Centrelink staff will be hosting a morning tea for Cowra's community organisations on Tuesday 3 August to mark National Homeless Persons' Week.
The morning tea is one of a number of activities being held by Centrelink staff across the country to recognise National Homeless Persons' Week which runs from Monday 2 to Friday 8 August 2010.
Cowra Centrelink manager Louise Hodge said Centrelink assists homeless people in many ways.
"Centrelink is committed to providing assistance to the homeless, through income support and individual assistance from Centrelink Customer Service Advisers and specialist staff such as social workers and Community Engagement Officers," Louise said.
"The morning tea is a way for Centrelink staff to demonstrate their commitment to supporting some of Australia's most vulnerable people.
"We are also asking those who attend for a gold coin donation and all money raised will go to local charities who help homeless people."
Louise said Centrelink Social Workers and Community Engagement Officers play a vital role in assisting the homeless.
"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," Louise said.
"There are 90 Centrelink Community Engagement Officers located around Australia providing assistance to homeless people who are experiencing difficulties accessing mainstream Centrelink services.
"Community Engagement Officers can deliver services to people outside the traditional customer service centre setting, in locations such as parks or crisis accommodation.
"I urge anyone who is seeking support to visit their nearest Centrelink customer service centre or speak to a Centrelink Social Worker by calling 13 1021."
Media opportunity
- What: Morning tea with local community organisations
- When: Tuesday 3 August, 10.00 am to 11.00 am
- Where: Cowra Centrelink, 28 Kendal Street, Cowra
For more information, telephone the relevant Centrelink Media Contact.