The Australian Bushfires – how can we help?
– 9 January 2020 –
“I imagine that like me, you are feeling horror and helplessness at the loss of human life, wildlife, stock and property in the never-ending bushfires burning in all corners of our country,” says Janna Voloshin, CEO.
Even though our Vasey RSL Care community is safe here in Melbourne, the smoke in the air this week has been a stark reminder of what is happening not far away.
“What can we do? I have been asking myself this – and many people have come to me with this question, and with suggestions.”
Supporting Elderly in Need
I have been in touch with the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) to let them know that we have 12 beds available in our aged care homes for those in the bushfire areas who need urgent accommodation.
This information has been forwarded by the Deputy Commissioner through her ex-service organisation networks and we are standing by ready to help.
Vasey RSL Care Bushfire Raffle
We will be holding a Bushfire Support Raffle at each of our five residential homes and at central office.
Calling for Raffle Prizes – can you help?
You may have some Christmas gifts that didn’t quite hit the mark, or other new items that you just haven’t used.
“We will be making up hampers as prizes for the raffle,” says Janna. “We would love your contributions!”
Please drop off suitable items to the Lifestyle Team at your nearest Vasey RSL Care site – Bundoora, Ivanhoe, Brighton, Brighton East or Frankston South, or to Fran Ludgate at Central Office in Hawthorn. (If you are not sure about an item, please contact Fran on 9810 5500 or fran.ludgate@vaseyrslcare.org.au.)
Baking for the Front Lines and Wildlife
Australians have helped our front lines by baking ANZAC biscuits for more than a century.
We are looking into this at the moment.
Fauna Balls
Please note that if you were hoping to make fauna balls, there has been a halt called at the moment. More information will be provided as it comes to hand. Apologies for any inconvenience caused.
Knitting and Crocheting
For those who have knitting and crocheting skills, the Animal Rescue Collective (ARC) Craft Guild is asking for a number of items, including joey pouches, animal and bird nests and blankets. Click to open the patterns.
Please drop off finished items to the Lifestyle Team at your nearest Vasey RSL Care home, or to Fran at Central Office.
Make a Donation
“Whilst it’s good to do something practical, we are hearing very clearly from those on the ground that monetary donations are the quickest and best way to help,” says Janna.
“So if you can, please donate to a registered charity of your choice. Vasey RSL Care has already made a donation of $500 to the Victorian Bushfire Disaster Appeal, set up by the Victorian government.”
Donate to the Victorian Bushfire Disaster Appeal
Janna:
“This is not the start to 2020 that any of us would have wanted, and our hearts go out to all those who have lost loved ones, homes and livelihoods, and to those whose lives will never be the same again. I hope you will join with me in doing what we can to help those in need.”