By Luke Voogt
As “probably the youngest” support worker at Bethany Group, Mount Duneed’s Hayley Boehm is enjoying helping out during hard times.
The 19-year-old has delivered emergency relief packages across Geelong to families and individuals experiencing homelessness or family violence, or just struggling to make ends meet.
“Being able to support people in this tough time is pretty rewarding,” said Ms Boehm, who has been with the organisation for about a year.
“A lot of families have really appreciated that they’re still able to get support, even in this difficult time.”
The packages include frozen food, pantry staples, toys, blankets and toiletries, plus some special items thrown in from local not-for-profit group Geelong Mums.
“It depends on what they need,” Ms Boehm said.
Package recipient Sarita, who did not want her surname used, described the items as “really helpful”.
“With libraries closed, it’s harder to access books for my son,” she said.
“It was really nice to receive items that my family actually needed – in our package there were books for my son so that he could keep reading. I am so appreciative for the support.”
Bethany Community Support was one of one of four recipients in the Corio and Corangamite electorates to receive a federal funding injection late last month.
“There are many people in our community who are financially impacted by the coronavirus,” Bethany chief executive officer Grant Boyd said.
“It is likely that throughout this crisis, Bethany Community Support will engage with members of the community who may not have needed our services in the past.”
The $391,757 boost would go towards emergency payments and bill assistance, transport costs, healthcare assistance, and purchasing school supplies and food, Mr Boyd said.
This included the recently-unemployed and people struggling with social isolation, mental health issues or family violence, he said.
“In addition to our emergency relief support, we have a number of programs such as financial and therapeutic counselling, family violence, Gamblers Help, and child and family services to support people in challenging situations.”
For support phone 5278 8122 or email info@bethany.org.au.
