Sue Foley
It is important we become aware of loneliness being experienced by some members of our community as this has a severe impact on people's mental health. By being aware of our community we can provide help/guidance to those in need by encouraging them to seek out assistance or undertake new ways in their life. Perhaps medical help may be needed or making new contacts. Suggesting what assistance is available from the local councils and organisations to members of the community and newly arrived residents. Older men can experience severe loneliness and new skills can provide connection via the Men"s Shed programs in the community
Suggestions included were to make to contact with our residents to let them know we care via a call up program, writing to those in aged care, encouragement for local residents to join common interest groups i.e. cooking, walking or those connected with music.
Sue Foley was Chairman of Bush Fire Relief Program that Rotary undertook earlier this year.
Sue advised that all the funds i.e. $825k raised by Rotary Clubs had been distributed in various ways to those suffering from the effects of the terrible bush fires.
Information was provided to Sue in relation to our Club's Community Programs in Carlton. Links to Secondary Schools in the area i.e. Princes Hill Secondary College and Uni High, swimming lessons for youngsters in need, the literacy program, our work with the Sisters of Mercy, the CLAN "Carlton Local Agency Networks", Royal Childrens Hospital and Ronald McDonald House.