By ALANA MITCHELSON
Dan has lost his whole world.
The 30-year-old, who has an intellectual disability, lived independently at his Newtown home for more than 10 years.
On the day of the severe flash flood, the Newton resident had returned from Warrnambool mid-afternoon after visiting family over the long weekend. He was soon forced to evacuate as floodwater continued to seep in from underneath the doors.
His support worker Maree Mirkovic said Dan has been homeless since the flood and is currently living in Warrnambool with family who struggle to support him, unable to return to work.
“He’s lost all of his possessions,” she said.
“The Department of Human Services are still assessing whether it’s safe for Dan to return to his apartment. All the electricals are in the process of being checked and the carpets are being stripped up.
“But even when it’s deemed safe to return, he has no bed to sleep in and he only has the clothes he took to Warrnambool with him. He’s lost everything.
“He has no social circles in Geelong so he spends most of his time in his unit. That’s his haven..”
The floodwater reached a height of about five foot and then stood at “calf height” for some time, Ms Mirkovic said.
Encompass Community Services have launched an appeal to raise about $5,000 to replace Dan’s belongings and household appliances.
Dan works two days a week at Encompass’ paddock where he assists with maintenance work and farming projects. He is also on a disability pension.
The flood devastation has taken away his small and only form of income.
To donate towards the appeal, Ms Mirkovic said to visit encompass-cs.org.au or phone 5222 3377.
